Although we have largely the same squad that came close to finishing 4th, and won the FA cup, it's important to consider the effect that our financial situation has on the team, especially after a poor season.
We have a number of quality players that are capable of playing for top Premier League teams, at least qualifying for Europe, and signed for us on the basis of those ambitions being realistic here.
Now all of a sudden they are at a mid table team that is unable financially to make improvements, and the manager talks about needing to sell to balance the books.
The same players that 2 years ago were competing with the best now feel that's it's impossible here. So they either resign themselves to the fact, or are desperate to move. Rodgers himself Is probably feeling the same way.
There is also the fact that some players will feel too comfortable, knowing that the backup players aren't going to challenge their place in the team, a new face can create some doubt that keeps them on their toes.
With the exception of the goalkeeper, we can pretty much field the same team that finished 5th and won the FA cup, but the mentality has changed from being ambitious to an acceptance of mediocrity.
As I say, Rodgers being an ambitious manager is affected himself and from his comments I feel he is likely feeding the feeling rather than trying to solve it.
What we need is something to shake up the team, and inspire some ambition, but I don't think we are in a position to do anything.
Frustrating indeed.