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Brendan Rodgers has no fear of returning to European competition – despite Liverpool FC’s chastening experience in the Champions League this season.

The Reds were dumped out of the competition after winning only one of their six group games, finishing behind holders Real Madrid and unfancied Swiss side Basel.

Liverpool have lost just two games since their elimination in December – one in extra-time away at Chelsea in the Capital One Cup – following a switch to a three-man defence.

And Rodgers is adamant his side are ready for European football.

“We’ll find out, if we play that way, but it’s a way of working which suits our players,” said the Reds boss.

“There’s no tougher league than Premier League – it’s a real tough competition with top class players and outstanding managers. So for us it has worked very well.

“If we decide to play that way in European competition then we hold no fear.

“The system is irrelevant, it’s about a return to identity as a team and the style of football which is ultimately out there between games.”

Thursday’s game will be Liverpool’s 41st this season, but Rodgers insists his side can cope with the demands of fighting on three fronts.

They remain in the race for the Premier League top four, as well as the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

“I said at the beginning of the season one of objectives was to win a trophy, hopefully you will have seen from our efforts we want to do everything we can to win a trophy,” he said.

“This competition is no different, it’s a very prestigious competition and one we want to do well in.

“Our focus is on the next game, our players over a number of games have been fantastic and we want to continue with mentality and performance level.”

Steven Gerrard remains sidelined as he continues to recover from a hamstring problem.