Rodgers praises midfield maestros

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers believes the evolution of Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson are prime examples of the strides being made at Anfield.

Coutinho was signed just over a year ago from Inter Milan for £8.5m and immediately showcased his abilities as a playmaker with an eye for a defence-slitting pass. Where the little Brazilian came up short was going the other way where his defensive contribution was often found wanting.

Coutinho’s arrival also coincided with a return to the team of Henderson, who — after rejecting the chance to join tonight’s opponents Fulham the previous summer – had been a fringe player in Rodgers’ first season. A year on and the pair have cemented their positions as first choices and the manager credits the players with stepping up their efforts.