Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has defended his players by taking full responsibility for his side's 3-1 defeat to Hull City on Sunday.

The Reds slumped to their first ever loss to the Tigers, as Jake Livermore, David Meyler and a Martin Skrtel own goal sealed a historic victory for Steve Bruce's men.

"In the main, our form has been very good so I can't criticise the players too much," Rodgers told reporters at a press conference. "If there's anyone to blame, blame me as manager. Ultimately it is down to the manager.

"The players have been brilliant over the course of the season, we just had an off day.

Consequently, Rodgers's men slipped to fourth in the Premier League table after Chelsea and Manchester City both enjoyed victories yesterday.