Rodgers added: “There comes a point when the reality has to set in. Whether it is me in my life here – I have got three years and an option for another – it is going to take longer than that.

“I just have a gut feeling about here that everyone is on the same page. We understand where we are at.”

Di Matteo, given the Chelsea job on a short-term basis in March, was rewarded for his trophy double with a long-term contract in the summer, only to be dismissed following a 3-0 Champions League defeat at Juventus in midweek. Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is being lined up as a replacement, and Rodgers said: “I felt for Robbie. He went in there and done a brilliant job. It is incredible to win the Champions League and the FA Cup and then quickly be out of a job.

“Literally four weeks ago this was a team that was going to win everything.

“It’s a disappointing day if you’re a manager. This really shows the game that we’re in now.

“Now if you’re at the top of the table and winning trophies you can still lose your job.”

Liverpool entertain Swiss side Young Boys in the Europa League this evening knowing victory, allied to Udinese failing to win at Anzhi , would put them through to the knockout stages with a game to spare.

Pepe Reina, Martin Skrtel and Jamie Carragher will add experience to an otherwise experimental line-up that is expected to include both Stewart Downing and Joe Cole, despite the pair being lined up for possible Anfield exits in January.

With Liverpool facing four games in 10 days, Luis Suarez and Steven Gerrard are likely to be kept on standby on the bench with Jonjo Shelvey poised to lead the attack.

Meanwhile, Jon Flanagan is one of several Liverpool youngsters Rodgers is considering allowing to release on loan before tonight’s deadline.

Rodgers said: Maybe it’s a possibility he could go out on loan but it has to be the right club.”