With the Uruguyuan joining Barcelona and the England striker being out of action since September, last season’s runners-up have lost 52 of the 102 league goals scored last season

Brendan Rodgers insists Liverpool’s poor form to down to the absence of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge.

Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Newcastle leaves last season’s runners-up 12 points off league-leaders Chelsea and with just four wins from their opening 10 games of the campaign.

Suarez joined Barcelona in a €86 million deal during the summer while Sturridge hasn’t played since suffering an injury with England in September.

“We have lost goals,” Rodgers told reporters.

“We scored 101 last year but take away nearly 80 per cent of that [Suarez and Sturridge] and it can become ­difficult, alongside the introduction of lots of new players. It is not rocket science.”

However, with a crucial Champions League clash against Real Madrid next up, Rodgers maintains faith in his squad and feels increased efforts will see them turn the corner.

“It has been a difficult start, not ideal. We can only continue to work well, that’s all you can do.

“If you work hard it gives you extra confidence, and ultimately confidence will then bring you success. It is certainly something we will strive towards.

“You’re always analysing, but I don’t think it’s so much about stripping it down and starting again with ourselves. But you need to find the answers and that is my job as manager and coach.”