Rodgers: Lambert has a key role

The Reds returned home on Tuesday after taking part in the club's two-week US tour, during which time they faced opposition in the forms of AS Roma, Olympiacos, Manchester City, AC Milan and Manchester United.

With Lambert featuring against such high-calibre opponents throughout this period, Rodgers is convinced the club's new No.9 will have an important role to play in the coming season.

"I think with Rickie it's just the adaptation period of coming into a new club," said Rodgers.

"There are new pressures and he's still getting his fitness. A lot has happened to Rickie in a short period of time - moving his family up, travelling away, getting used to the players and how we work.

"I have no doubts about Rickie. He knows he's not going to play every week but he will play a specific role for us in certain games. I'm sure he will do that really well."

Reflecting further on their time away, Rodgers revealed he is pleased with how the club's pre-season preparations have gone, and feels the squad has benefitted immensely ahead of the Premier League campaign.

"I think the players and the staff have been magnificent," he said.

"There's been a lot of travelling but we've been able to get a lot of great work in.

"The facilities have been excellent and we've played five games against very good opposition.

"The players have got fitter and stronger and it's been great for the new boys to settle in with the group.

"We've obviously got a few players to come back, but we're on course for where we need to be for the first Premier League game against Southampton.

"The players will rest and recover for a few days, and then we'll get back into it towards the end of the week to prepare for a big game against Borussia Dortmund at Anfield on Sunday."