Brendan Rodgers remains proud of his team's performance in Saturday's defeat away to Newcastle.

The 3-0 scoreline flattered the home side somewhat, and for long periods we matched a United team that cost upwards of £35million in transfer fees.

Brendan said, "In the first half we were well in the game but went to sleep a couple of minutes before the first goal. Newcastle deserved to win the game but I am very proud of the young players, this is a great experience to come here. We will be better."

Asked by a national reporter if he was disappointed with his team's displays in this early part of the season, he said, "No, we've played well. For periods in this game we were in control and there's plenty of growth in this team. We know we need to get goals, it's important in any league, we will continue to work well and there are more positive days ahead."

The boss remained upbeat when asked about our chances for this campaign, saying, "Our aims are to finish in and around the play-offs. We are constructing a new group with a new identity, it will take a wee bit of time but we have a great bunch here with some very, very good players.

"The great thing is that they want to learn. It's very, very early in the season, second game and there's a long, long way to go. Every day of your life you are learning. There has been great growth in my group. The club has taken on board my ideas and this isn't a one or two game thing, over the next years we will construct and rebuild and see the benefit from that. We'll reflect on the game, draw from our positives, move on, improve and look to Swansea on Tuesday night."