Liverpool manager, Brendan Rodgers, has made it clear that he expects his team to make a fresh title challenge this season.

Rodger’s club finished second in last season’s Premier League campaign, after a defeat to Chelsea and a draw against Crystal Palace allowed Manchester City to finish the league as winners.

“I wasn't lying on a sun lounger on a beach over the summer crying and fretting over the fact that we lost the league,” he told the Sunday Mirror.

“There is only an excitement and a belief inside the club that we can challenge again for the title this time.”

Rodgers then went on to defend Liverpool’s chances despite the loss of top goalscorer, Luis Suarez, claiming his side can handle the pressure of a title run-in.

"We proved last season that we can handle the pressure of a title run-in. I know people will point to the Chelsea and Crystal Palace games, but they should look instead at our last 14 games.

"Twelve wins, one draw, one defeat. That kind of form usually wins you the title. So I know we can cope with the pressure. What we didn't get was that wee bit of luck you need along the way.”

"We just didn't get the breaks when we needed them most, but I believe that we will be back up there, challenging, and Liverpool Football Club is a very exciting place to be at this current time. Last season was a great step forward and now we must believe that we can go one better.

"If it doesn't happen this year, then it will happen soon. I really believe that because of what we're building at the club.''

Liverpool beging their Premier League campaign against Southampton this Sunday at 14:30.

Do you believe Liverpool can push for the title this season, despite the loss of Luis Suarez? Have your say in the comments section below.