Brendan Rodgers has said that Liverpool are lacking squad depth following their 2-1 defeat against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The Reds slipped to fifth in the Premier League table following today's result, and Rodgers believes that recent injuries have had a negative impact on his team.

"We couldn't have had two tougher games against two greater squads," BBC Sport quotes him as saying. "Our squad is very thin at the moment. Against Manchester City we were the best team and today, after taking the lead, we gave away a disappointing goal.

"The players have been outstanding. If one or two things had gone our way maybe the result would have been different. At the start of our season this squad was very thin anyway and we needed that bit of luck with nobody getting injured but up until four weeks ago that worked for us.

"We've shown when we've got everyone available we'll be a match for anyone. If we get that wee bit of luck and have people fit then there's no reason why we can't be challenging [for the title]. It's such a tight league you can go from top to fifth. Nothing is won at the midway point. The most important thing for us is that we're in the conversation this year."

Liverpool host Hull City in the Premier League on New Year's Day.