Rodgers won't risk Skrtel as Ludogorets target Reds weak spots
Martin Skrtel will not be rushed back for Liverpool's Champions League return against Ludogorets, says Brendan Rodgers.
The Slovakian hard man has been out of action since picking up an injury against Manchester City last in August and has missed the Merseysiders last two matches against Tottenham and Aston Villa.
While Skrtel managed to return to training on Sunday, Rodgers will not deploy the 29-year-old against the Bulgarian champions at Anfield for their Group B clash on Wednesday morning (Singapore time).
Instead, the defender is expected to be in the squad to face West Ham at Upton Park this weekend.
Rodgers said: "Martin has worked very hard. He joined the group yesterday, so he is working well.
"It's probably too early for this game but after a good week's training he should be ready for West Ham.
"Apart from that, we're pretty much the same in terms of injuries."
Looking for an upset
Meanwhile, Ludogorets captain Svetoslav Dyakov is hoping that his team can pull off a shock win over the Reds by targeting their weaknesses.
Anfield is set to enjoy a party atmosphere with Liverpool returning to Europe's elite competition for the first time since 2010.
But their first assignment will be up against the Bulgarian champions, who have won the top flight title for three consecutive seasons since their promotion in 2011.
Dyakov, a 30-year-old midfielder, said: "Liverpool are a very strong side but they have some weak points and we should make the most of it.
"We need to minimise our mistakes because they can punish any mistake.
"We know that a draw wouldn't be a bad result because every point in the Champions League is precious but we'll be definitely searching for a win."
Source: PA Sport
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