Rodgers Reveals Conditions for Suarez to Feature for Liverpool

Brendan Rodgers says Luis Suarez must apologise to his team-mates and prove he is ready to fight for Liverpool, if he is to feature for the club this season. Rodgers also hinted the Uruguay international would not be allowed to join Arsenal at any cost, meaning the former Ajax star may spend this season on the fringe of the first team at Anfield.

"Initially there will be an apology to his team-mates and the club. Then recognition he is ready to fight for the club. I know we are not seeing the Luis Suarez I know. He has spent some days working on his own. When he comes back from Uruguay [national team duty] we will see how it goes further," Rodgers explained

"We are all on the same page. He won't be going to Arsenal, that's for sure. When Luis is committed to the cause, we will welcome him back with open arms. I was made aware at the end of last season that a number of clubs would come in. The reality is that one (club has) done," he added.

The Gunners have been strongly and persistently linked with Suarez, despite both Rodgers and Anfield chiefs repeatedly saying their star player was not for sale. The north Londoners approaches have been relentless, though, and that has earned them the wrath of Liverpool owner John W Henry, who has categorically stated that he will not sell Suarez to a rival.

For his part, Suarez continues to want a move to the Emirates and last week claimed a pact existed between himself and Rodgers - a transfer would be arranged if the club failed to secure Champions League football. Suarez claims Rodgers has reneged on that promise, a claim backed by compatriot Edinson Cavani.

The good news for Rodgers and Liverpool fans is the goals have continued to come in Suarez's absence. Although the Reds lost the final pre-season fixture (0-1 to Celtic), the manager feels there is much promise in the link-up play of Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho and young England striker Daniel Sturridge.

"Coutinho is fantastic. He's a wonderful football player. He's very effective. He creates great opportunities.... disappointed he didn't score today," Rodgers said after the defeat to the Scottish champions.

Further attacking reinforcements have already been signed, in the shape of Spanish duo Luis Alberto and Iago Aspas, both of whom have impressed so far. And Italian striker Fabio Borini is available as well, after recovering from a broken leg suffered last year.

The Reds open their 2013/14 Premier League campaign on 17 August, with the visit of Stoke City. They host arch-rivals Manchester United on 1 September.