Brendan Rodgers has defended Raheem Sterling after the Liverpool winger was accused of diving during their goalless draw with Sunderland at the weekend.

The 19-year-old took a tumble in the box under a challenge from Wes Brown late on in the Anfield stalemate, but was not awarded the penalty.

The Reds manager told reporters: "He is so bright around the box and makes defenders tackle him and want to get around him.

"When you watch it closely, Wes Brown has a dangle for the ball, misses it, and Raheem moves to the side. As he comes down with his foot, he probably just lands on Wes Brown.

"I didn't think it was a dive, but I don't think it was a penalty. I just think it was one of those coming togethers in the box that sometimes happens and the referee made the right decision."

The result has left Liverpool ninth in the table, four points off the Champions League places.