Liverpool Youngster Determined to Impress Rodgers Despite Limited Opportunities

Liverpool youngster Raheem Sterling is determined to force his way into the plans of manager Brendan Rodgers after finding his opportunities severely limited at the start of the new campaign.

The 18 year old has started just one Premier League game this season but has come off the bench on a further six occasions as Rodgers uses the young winger more as an impact player.

Sterling burst onto the scene last season and played 36 times in all competitions but after a busy summer in the transfer market, Rodgers finds himself with more options and a vastly improved squad.

Despite his lack of starts and being forced to play in an unfamiliar position at right wing back, the England international is simply happy that the club have made such an impressive start to the campaign.

"I've not played as much as I'd have liked to, but the team are doing well and that's the most important thing at this moment in time," Sterling told the official Liverpool website.

"Hopefully I'll get my chance and hopefully I'll take it. But the team has been great so far this season.

"My contribution has been coming off the bench and having to defend more than I'm used to. But as long as the team is winning, that's the most important thing. I'm not in a rush."

Having seen fellow academy graduates Andre Wisdom and Suso be sent out on loan, Sterling has made it clear that he is willing to fight for his place and believes the best way to do that is to catch the eye in training.

"Every day we have training, so that helps you [make an impression]," added Sterling. "To get in your favourite position on a matchday, to get a sub appearance you need to show the manager there's something special. You've just got to work hard in training.

"I can definitely learn from Sturridge and Suarez. They've taken this season by storm and their link-up play feels like they've been playing together for a good few years now. But it's only been a short amount of time and I'm sure as time goes on they'll improve together.

"I haven't had much of a chance to [play alongside them] this season, but in training you can see what they are both about. They're quick, sharp and they play one-twos around the edge of the box.

"They're both clinical and both really good players. So I'm really looking forward to playing with them."