Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed concerns with the depth of his squad following today's 3-1 defeat to Hull City.
Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho both struggled with ankle problems in the run-up to the match at the KC Stadium, with the latter being named on the bench.
The Northern Irishman said that, with a busy festive period fast approaching, now is the time for his fringe players to play their way into his plans.
"The quality of our squad isn't big enough to cope with two big players like that missing," Rodgers told reporters. "No doubt it was a disruption.
"It's difficult if you take those two out, two players who have been very efficient for us this season. This little period will test us now but players will come in and it's a great opportunity to a stake a claim.
"We have a very busy period coming up and we've got a squad that needs as many of its good players as possible so it's not ideal."
Sturridge has been ruled out for up to eight weeks.
Michael Penkman
