We are still contenders, says Rodgers

Liverpool proved it deserves a place among the top four clubs in England despite a 2-1 Boxing Day loss at Manchester City, manager Brendan Rodgers said.

City was forced to come from behind to preserve its perfect home record on Thursday and also had cause to be thankful for a controversial disallowed Liverpool goal in the first half.

"I was very proud of the players; I thought they were absolutely outstanding," Rodgers told the club's website.