Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed his "admiration" for Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs.

The Welshman has received praise for his longevity within the game as he celebrates turning 40 years old today.

"I've always looked at Ryan because he is the same age as me," BBC Sport quotes Rodgers as saying. "He's 40 and playing and I'm 40 and sat here, but he has been blessed genetically with a body which allows him to stay fit and play games and I think everyone in football has incredible admiration for him.

"To be playing at the top level of the game turning 40 - the dedication and commitment, the focus and hunger you need to do that is remarkable. I think everyone would applaud him for what he is doing and it looks like he could play on. He has been a wonderful player over the years."

Rodgers's playing career came to an end when he was 20 years old due to a genetic knee condition.