The Barcelona defender has expressed shock that his team-mate, who scored 31 goals in 33 league appearances at Liverpool last season, is not in the running for the award

Barcelona centre-back Marc Bartra says he is surprised that Luis Suarez is not on the Ballon d’Or shortlist.

The Uruguay international scored 31 goals in 33 appearances for Liverpool in the Premier League last season, with 12 being netted in 2014 for the English side with a further 11 assists.

But he has seemingly paid the price for his bite on Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup in Brazil this summer, as he was kept out of action for a full four months, only returning last week, and has been left off the 23-man list.

Bartra believes the forward, who set up Barca’s opening goal for Neymar in the 3-1 Clasico defeat against Real Madrid, should be among the candidates for the individual accolade.

“I’m surprised,” Bartra told beIN Sports. “It’s true. I think he had a spectacular year. He’s a great player, he is one of the best strikers in the world and I think he deserves to be there [on the shortlist].”

The 23-year-old also talked about his side’s recent high-profile defeats – in Suarez’s return against Madrid and versus Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

“We couldn’t win against the toughest opponents so far, but I think the team is confident and eager to continue playing good football,” he added.

The Anfield club’s captain insists he will not be retiring in the summer, meaning an exit could be on the cards if he is not offered a new contract

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed he is prepared to ply his trade elsewhere if he is not offered a new contract.

Gerrard’s current deal expires at the end of the season and the midfielder says talks over a new deal are yet to take place.

The 34-year-old has previously hinted he would be open to the idea of playing abroad following Frank Lampard’s move to MLS expansion franchise New York City.

And a departure from his boyhood club – where he has made over 480 Premier League appearances – could become reality if Liverpool decide not to offer the veteran new terms.

“I can only worry about this season ’cause I’m only contracted until May,” Gerrard told The Daily Telegraph.

“As it stands at the moment, I’m here until the end of the season and want to make the most of it. I certainly won’t be retiring this summer. I will play beyond this season.

“We will have to wait and see if that’s at Liverpool or somewhere else. That’s Liverpool’s decision. If they don’t come then I will see what’s out there.”

Gerrard has been a mainstay for Liverpool this term, playing in every Premier League match ahead of Saturday’s trip to face Newcastle United.

The Liverpool manager insists he does not need to pay special attention to the fiery Italy international, who clashed with Jonjo Shelvey during their League Cup tie at Anfield

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers insists he does not need to protect Mario Balotelli from other Premier League players following an on-pitch spat with Jonjo Shelvey.

Balotelli clashed with the Swansea City midfielder during the Reds’ 2-1 League Cup victory at Anfield, in which the Italy striker scored, but Rodgers claims he is unconcerned with the 24-year-old’s behaviour.

“I don’t have to protect Mario,” the Reds boss told reporters. “He’s fine. There’s no concern.”

Balotelli is likely to feature against Newcastle this weekend as he continues his search for a first Premier League goal for Liverpool, though the Reds will be without Daniel Sturridge.

The England striker has been struggling with a calf injury in recent weeks and Rodgers confirmed that the star would not be fit for this weekend’s clash, with Fabio Borini in line to replace him in the starting XI.

Jose Enrique will also miss out against former club Newcastle, whom Rodgers praised following their recent wins over Manchester City and Tottenham, which have alleviated the pressure on previously under-pressure boss Alan Pardew.

“Jose is still not available. It’s an issue with his knee, but we have no other fresh concerns,” he said.

“Newcastle were outstanding at Tottenham and thoroughly deserved their win at Man City.

“I know Alan is a top class manager. He’s experienced and talented. He has over 600 odd games now.

“I think the division as a whole is tight. Newcastle have some momentum, but we are coming into the game with confidence.”