Brendan Rodgers has explained his reasoning behind Raheem Sterling's omission from the Liverpool side against Tottenham Hotspur this evening.

Rumours circulated on Tuesday morning that the England international would miss the visit from Spurs, and Rodgers said that the 20-year-old picked up an injury against Bolton Wanderers in the FA Cup last week.

"Raheem picked up an injury against Bolton in the bottom of his foot and he's obviously played since then [against Everton on Saturday], so unfortunately for him he just misses out," he told BT Sport.

"Young Lazar Markovic has been playing in a system that he knows well and he's done well since he's come into the team, he's got great pace and skill, so he'll continue as he has been."

Rodgers also reserved a word for Daniel Sturridge, who makes his first start for the Reds since the trip to White Hart Lane back in August.

The Northern Irishman added: "Daniel for me, has everything as a top European striker, and if we can get him on the pitch regularly, I think he'll show that."

Catch live commentary of the game here.