Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling has revealed that his five-year contract at Anfield came with a stern warning from Reds manager Brendan Rodgers.

Sterling ended speculation surrounding his future by penning a new deal in December after enjoying a breakthrough 2012 on Merseyside.

The 18-year-old has declared that Rodgers was keen to make sure that the England international does not rest on his laurels and continues to strive for improvement.

He told The Sun: "The manager has spoken to me about that from day one. He just said when you sign your contract don't relax. He said I've got to push on to the next level because you don't want to disappear.

"The manager doesn't want young players thinking they're better than what they are and has put his stamp on me.

"At the start of the season I didn't expect to play half as much, so it has been good for me and I am obviously looking forward to playing more."

Sterling has made 33 appearances for Liverpool this season in all competitions.