Liverpool fans are extremely proud of the club’s wonderful European history. A history that has seen them lift the European Cup/Champions League five times and the UEFA Cup three times. So what do they think when there manager says that a European defeat is a blessing in disguise as they can now focus on the ‘bigger picture’ of the Premier League and FA Cup?
Yes, Rodgers vies winning the FA Cup as a bigger prize than a European Cup that offered passage into next season’s Champions League.
Liverpool were knocked out of the Europa League by Besiktas on penalties on Thursday night, another disappointing night in Europe for Rodgers. For a club that has seen Bob Paisley, Joe Fagan, Kenny Dalglish, Gérard Houllier and Rafa Benitez all lead the Reds to European silverware, Rodgers two wins in eight European games this season is a pale comparison to the great Liverpool managers.
But Rodgers believes that the Refs first European penalty shoot-out defeat in the club’s history may end up working in their favour.
‘At the time you don’t like to say that because we want to win, and this year has been an experience for us both in the Champions League and Europa League,’ said the Northern Irishman, whose side were just three points off third place going into the weekend.
‘A lot of young players have gained invaluable experience in Europe this year and will be better for it.
‘We want to be in those competitions and the Champions League consistently for the next number of years but there is no doubt with that out of the way, and after next week’s game against Burnley (on Wednesday), we will go to nearly one game a week, which probably for the first time this season will give us chance to prepare every aspect.
‘The bigger picture for us is the Premier League and the FA Cup were our priorities, so that is still the case.
‘Between now and the end of the season we will give everything to achieve our objectives.’
What do you think of Rodgers comments Liverpool fans? Do you agree with him?