Downing hits back at manager Rodgers

Stewart Downing has blasted Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers for questioning his commitment. The reaction comes as Rodgers called on the winger, the fourth most expensive signing in the club's history as he arrived from Aston Villa last summer for £20m, to show "fight" for the cause as the club continued its clumsy start to the season. But Downing has says he has been hurt by the manager's comments he believes should not have been made public. "I was upset and you'll have to ask the manager what he meant with that quote," Downing said. "I always try my best. Bravery is a lot of things. If you want tackling and running around bustling, that's not my game. But bravery is also taking the ball when you're losing and creating things. That's what I try to do. I'm disappointed but if that's how the manager sees it, there's not a lot I can do about it. I just have to keep working hard and do what he tells me to do. I would have preferred if it was private but that's the way it is. We've had a few conversations and the only thing for me is to keep working hard and take my chance when I get it." Liverpool are 14th in the Premier League table after 7 games. Bet365 have the Reds at 125/1 to win the Premier League title this season.