Raheem Sterling's behaviour off the pitch has been an unwelcome distraction for Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, according to former player Jamie Carragher.

The 20-year-old has been warned by Rodgers after footage emerged of the England international inhaling 'legal high' nitrous oxide.

Carragher, who made 737 appearances for Liverpool, believes this issue has got in the way of Rodgers's plans as the club look to chase down Manchester City in fourth place.

"Even if you don't talk about it, it is in the background," said Carragher, BBC Sport reports.

"Rodgers is asked the day before a game, when he should be talking football he's thinking about Sterling."

Sterling was named on the shortlist for the PFA Young Player of the Year award on Thursday.