Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says Raheem Sterling deserves England recognition.

Rodgers has no doubt Sterling's performances for Liverpool this season have merited further involvement with the senior national squad, and has no concerns that if that does come about, he will not be handled the right way.

Speaking on Wednesday afternoon at a press conference to preview Thursday night's Europa League Group A home clash with Udinese, Rodgers said: "I'm always one for young players.

"Raheem has been brilliant. He is a real good kid who has stepped into the team and done exceptionally well.

"So in terms of whether he deserves a place (in the senior England squad), then of course - in terms of his performance level, he has been outstanding.

"Thankfully we have an England manager who has many, many years of experience and a wonderful group of players, so if he did get called up, he would be looked after I'm sure.

"I think with young players, we have seen so many times in this country top talents at 17 and 18 who have too much too young and pressure forced on to them too early.

"By the time they get to 21 or 22 everyone has forgotten about them. But Roy is a very experienced manager and I'm sure when he feels the time is right for him to come in and make an impact, he will do that."