Liverpool chairman Tom Werner says Luis Suarez is a key part of their long-term plans. The striker has been outstanding since returning from his extended ban.
"I got a kick out of the fact that Luis came out on to the pitch before kick-off with his baby and his daughter," Werner, 63, told the Mirror.
"He shook hands with all the officials and the other players carrying his baby. That is the side of Luis I know, the loving parent.
"There was interest in him from other clubs throughout the summer but it was important for us to try to keep him.
"He is one of the great players of the world and we felt that we would be a stronger club with him than without him.
"That does not mean I don't respect his intense desire to play in the Champions League. But it would be a very happy day next May if and when we get to the Champions League by finishing in the top four and he is part of it.
"It is our intention to keep him for a while.
"Our intention is to build a winning club and he is integral to that. The past is the past and I have great affection for him personally.
"I give Brendan Rodgers an enormous amount of credit for making sure Luis knew how needed he was at Liverpool.
"Brendan made it plain to him how much he was going to be embraced by the fans, and the supporters have been terrific."
