Rodgers backs Reds to reach Europa League final

Former Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has backed the Reds to overcome their 1-0 deficit against Villarreal and make the Europa League final, writes Mirror Football's James Whaling.

A late goal in the first leg in Spain last week means Jurgen Klopp's side have it all to do when they welcome their La Liga opponents to Anfield for the return fixture.

The atmosphere on Merseyside was deafening as Liverpool netted four second-half goals to stun Borussia Dortmund in the last round, and Rodgers believes it could play a huge part on Thursday evening.

"I think they have a great chance on Thursday night," the Northern Irishman told Sky Sports.

"[Villarreal] are one-nil up, they [Liverpool] will be disappointed to concede late on but going back to Anfield with only one goal to make up, they've got every chance of getting through.

"The Anfield support is incredible so I'm sure they'll really push them into the final."