Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers admits Lazar Markovic's four-match UEFA ban came as a shock.

Markovic copped the suspension for his dismissal against Champions League opponents Basel.

"We are obviously disappointed with the length of the ban - I think everyone would have felt it was very harsh," said Rodgers.

"However, we accept it and unfortunately he will have to serve that and won't be able to contribute these coming games."

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