With the Reds coming into a must-win Champions League game after three consecutive defeats in the competition, the Northern Irishman wants to settle nerves with the first strike

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is looking for his side to boost their hopes of reaching the Champions League last 16 with a fast start against Ludogorets.

After three consecutive defeats in Group B, the Reds need to beat the Bulgarians and Basel in their final two matches to progress.

They go into Wednesday’s game having lost their last four in all competitions, though, and Rodgers knows that an early goal is essential for his struggling players.

“The way I work is to never dwell on the past,” he told reporters. “Anyone can make mistakes. We need to focus on the next game.

“We will keep fighting and working in the belief that the honesty and commitment of the group will get us the results.

“We haven’t gotten the results and we haven’t been consistent. If we get the first goal, that can give us the confidence.”

The Liverpool boss expects a tough test against the side whom they beat 2-1 on matchday one, however.

“It’s the same as any other game,” he added. “We give Ludogorets a lot of respect. They have showed they are a good side with very good players [in the first game]. It was a very tough game at Anfield.

“We arrive here with big motivation. We will do everything we can to get a result.”