Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers: 'Raheem Sterling is important to us'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that "terrific" Raheem Sterling is an integral part of the Reds squad this season.

The 19-year-old has started Liverpool's last two Premier League fixtures following a stint on the sidelines.

"He's a terrific young player to have," Rodgers told the club's official website. "He will always be important for us this season.

"He didn't play so much in the opening months, but you can see that he's a real threat when he's at the top of his game."

The Merseyside outfit are currently second in the league table.