Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says Raheem Sterling's form is down to an improved tactical focus.

Rodgers believes Sterling has matured into a more tactically astute player, who is enjoying his football as a consequence.

"I think his focus on his game is clearly there," Rodgers told reporters at Melwood. "I see it on a daily basis. He's getting himself prepared well for training.

"It's difficult when you have a young player at 17 years of age and they burst onto the scene like Raheem did through his sheer natural talent. He come into the spotlight and in those first six months, he was outstanding.

"But it happens to every single player; there's going to be a drop-off period for them. And for him, it was probably the second half of last season. But he came in over the course of pre-season and he worked tirelessly.

"He was bright and he was given a chance this year, which he took. He's only just turned 19 years of age. I think you're seeing now a boy that is very focused on his football and he's happy, which is important.

"He's concentrating on his work. In training he's been unbelievable. He's so hard and so fast in his game. Technically he's getting better. Tactically, for a young boy, he's got a really good head for the game.

"I think he's recognised that at a club like this here, you've got to be right every single day of your life, not just in every game. He's getting his rewards at the minute. He looks very fast and bright and he can cause problems for opponents."