Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has warned Raheem Sterling not to rely on his new contract after the youngster put pen to paper on a deal earlier today.

Sterling ended speculation over his future by signing a long-term contract with the club having established himself as a first-team regular this season.

However, Rodgers revealed that, although he was delighted at securing the deal, he would not allow Sterling to get carried away.

"I always congratulate players when they sign a new contract and then I warn them," said Rodgers.

"I tell them they need to decide after this contract whether there is going to be another contract at one of the biggest clubs in the world, or whether it will be at a different level. They can't rely on this contract and I make sure they know that.

"There is a lot of development and a lot of nurturing to go yet. He has been rewarded as a young player who, at 17 years of age, has come in and performed very well. He will never be elevated above his position here at the club, but he has been rightly rewarded and it is fantastic for the football club."

Liverpool currently sit 12th in the Premier League table following their 3-1 loss to Aston Villa last weekend.