The Northern Irishman believes the Reds' start to the season could have been different with better officiating and more luck for his side.

"We haven't got anything this year," Rodgers told reporters in the lead-up to this weekend's Merseyside derby against Everton. "I have got to be honest, that is incredible. We are due a wee bit of luck somewhere along the line, so let's hope it starts at the weekend."

After Liverpool won all three contests with Everton last season, Rodgers is keen to extend their recent run in the fixture.

He added: "These are real firecrackers of games, with a lot of passion and intensity, which they should be because that is what rivalries are all about.

"But it is also important to stay calm. I think the referee has a big part to play in that. The history of it shows there has been a lot of red cards but I hope that this weekend we might start to get a decision that goes our way for once.

"The Merseyside derby is a terrific game full of passion, full of quality. I hope the referee, Andre, can really ensure everything is in control and the football is what is talked about."