Ryan Shawcross insisted keeper Jack Butland's injury absence is not to blame for Danish youngster Jakob Haugaard conceded six goals in two games since taking over from the England international.

When asked if Stoke were missing Butland, Shawcross said: "No. Jak's put in some good performances.

"The last six goals I don't think he's got anywhere near because they've all been good finishes. We've got a top-class keeper and I'm sure he'll continue to do well."

It was the first time Stoke have conceded four goals this season and, asked for his explanation, Shawcross said: "Lack of concentration, lads not switching on. It's just simple things.

"You have a man to mark and you have to stick with them. Things happen in games but these are things you can usually stop. We're usually okay at it so hopefully we can improve for next week.

"The last six, two against Swansea then the four here, are all disappointing goals and goals that usually you'd defend better.

"At the start we played some good football and in the first half we were probably the better team but we conceded two sloppy goals and in the second half Liverpool sort of rolled over us."