Brendan Rodgers believes Liverpool will be much better prepared for next season.

The Reds dropped off the pace in 2014/15 after finishing second to Manchester City last term and a lot of that has to do with 'distractions' according to Rodgers.

Last summer, Luis Suarez left for Barcelona and Daniel Sturridge has battled constant injury while there have been a few off-field misdemeanours involving young gun Raheem Sterling - all of which have contributed to the shortcomings of the Reds this campaign.

"Expectancy from last season was going to be high," said Rodgers at the club's end-of-season wards night on Tuesday.

"Things that have happened, the distractions, you can't plan for them. It has been a difficult, trying season but the players will all be better for it next year.

"The players need a rest, but the club will continue to work hard to improve the squad and next year provides another great opportunity for us like last season."