Luis Suarez to play for Liverpool in Australia

The 26-year-old flew to Melbourne from his homeland on Sunday to join up with the rest of the squad for an historic first game in Australia tomorrow. Suarez, who suggested while on international duty that he would be interested in a move to Real Madrid, is set to play in that match against Melbourne Victory.

Liverpool have already turned down a bid of £30million from Arsenal this summer and although Rodgers said he was worth far more than that he stressed that should not be interpreted as saying they were prepared to sell. “There’s been a lot of speculation over the course of the close season but the reality is that he’s a player who is very much valued at Liverpool,” he said. “And unless there’s any sort of offer that comes in that’s anywhere near his value, there’s nothing to consider. We haven’t had that.”

Asked what that value was, Rodgers replied: “I didn’t say we would sell him. I said that every player has a value and a worth. Doesn’t mean you’ve got to sell them.”

Rodgers was asked whether he expected Suarez to still be with them for the start of the new season, and replied: “Yes, very much so.”

Rodgers plans further talks with the striker over the coming weeks, having been in regular contact over the summer.