Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has praised Stewart Downing after the winger scored the only goal in Thursday's 1-0 win over Anzhi Makhachkala in the Europa League.

Downing fired home with his right foot during the opening minutes of the second half to give the Reds the three points at Anfield.

"Stewart Downing scored a brilliant goal," said Rodgers. "He is a wonderful technician off either foot.

"He has had a rough ride here, it's been a tough time, but he is a good guy and an important member of our team and he got a good reception from the Kop."

The win has earned Liverpool a two-point lead at the top of Group A after three matches.