Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers admits matchwinner Steven Gerrard almost didn't make the win over Aston Villa.

Rodgers explained afterwards how the 32-year-old had struggled to put his boots on prior to the game because of pain in his foot.

"He had to get an injection in his heel," revealed the boss.

"He had a wee issue with his heel for a couple of days. He had a bit of pain in it and was struggling to get his boot on.

"For him it was a case of doing whatever it takes to play. It was nothing major but he had pain in his foot - and many other players might not have played or even trained."