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Tom Werner has delivered a ringing endorsement of Brendan Rodgers’ first season as Liverpool FC manager.

The Reds chairman says owners Fenway Sports Group have been delighted by the impact of the Northern Irishman since they appointed him a year ago.

Liverpool finished seventh in the Premier League – one place higher than in 2011/12 – but Werner believes they are well placed to improve on that next term after a strong second half of the campaign.

“I think Brendan has made remarkable progress,” Werner said.

“He’s a great strategist and has shown strong leadership as he has led the team through this season.

“Obviously there is disappointment that we didn’t finish higher in the table but the team has certainly improved as the season has gone on.

“To see the new additions in January, Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho, perform so well has been very positive to see.

“We scored a lot more goals than last season. The 38 away league goals was the club’s highest number in a league season since 1990.

“The club is definitely moving in the right direction under Brendan.

“Our intention is to strengthen the squad further this summer and as owners we’re very optimistic and excited about the future.”

Meanwhile, Rodgers is determined to ensure that Liverpool are ready to hit the ground running next term. His squad have all departed for the summer break but the players will reassemble at Melwood on July 2 for the start of pre-season training.

The Reds’ schedule of friendlies is set to include matches in Norway and Ireland as well as the two-week tour of Indonesia, Australia and Thailand, and Steven Gerrard’s testimonial at Anfield.

Last year Liverpool’s preparations for the season were disrupted by players returning late for club duty due to their international commitments at Euro 2012 and the Olympic Games.

However, this time around Rodgers expects things to be a great deal smoother.

“The end of the season gives us an opportunity to reflect and the players will need this rest mentally as much as physically,” Rodgers said.

“But we will take the minimum amount of rest we can have.

“We will be back in very early for pre-season on July 2.

“I want us to be flying and super fit when we kick off.

“It will be a different pre-season this year.

“They will be back in at the earliest possible moment to get ready and prepare for what will hopefully be an exciting season next year.”