Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has told Raheem Sterling that he still has a way to go before he can consider himself an important member of the first team.

The 18-year-old was thrust into the first team last season as Rodgers operated with a thread-bare squad, and the teenager eventually earned himself a call-up to the England squad.

However, the Reds boss has said that Sterling still has plenty to learn in the game.

"Look at Raheem's progress and what he's done in the last year or so," Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo. "He has propelled himself from a youth team and reserve player to an England player.

"But they still have a long way to go in their professional careers and at this stage we're just looking to manage that and make sure we nurture that for the future.

"Over the last year or so they have seen that they are going to get an opportunity and if they can devote their life, be professional and take the opportunities when they come then they are going to have an excellent chance."

The winger recently stated his willingness to learn from Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge.