Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is confident Raheem Sterling knows Anfield is the best place for him.

Liverpool are keen not to be held to ransom on the salary issue and are wary of paying the youngster too much too soon, but it is believed Sterling's new contract will be incentivised and include a number of performance-related increments.

However, just as important, according to Rodgers, was the youngster's well-being and development.

"We were always calm. I speak a lot with Raheem and his representatives and there has never been any issues from their side," he said.

"It was just making sure that we take care in terms of the financial - but also the football - plan for the player.

"This was about a young player who has rocketed from playing in the youth teams and the reserves into becoming a full England international.

"A lot has happened in his young life and it was just about making sure that there was that protection for him going forward - both in his financial situation and his football plan.

"I have always been confident that this was going to be the best place for him and thankfully the kid is very focused and devoted to Liverpool.

"His representatives know this is the best place for him. Once it gets concluded, he can start to the next part of his development and hopefully he can keep progressing."