Brendan Rodgers: Liverpool is the perfect place for Raheem Sterling

Sterling’s representatives held further talks with Anfield officials this week, but a resolution to negotiations has still to be struck.

Discussions are now likely to be shelved until the summer, but Rodgers said he was “relaxed” about the situation with Sterling having two years left to run on his existing deal.

Jordan Henderson has just over one year to run on his deal and talks are also at a standstill.

“There is nothing new to report,” said Rodgers. “I am relaxed about the Raheem situation. He has a couple of years to go. 

“It is quite obvious that Liverpool Football Club is the best option for him. He has just turned 20 in December and he has already made 114 appearances.

“He has a great opportunity and for any young player there is a great opportunity here. 

“We have a track record of developing talents and there will be more of those players like Raheem who will get that opportunity.

“I speak to Raheem about his football. Players have to leave the negotiations to their representatives and focus on the football.

“The club wants to ensure Raheem and Jordan Henderson have a future here.”

Liverpool face Swansea on Monday when they will look to maintain their push for a top four place.

“I think it is going to be very tight,” said Rodgers, who will have captain Steven Gerrard fit again.

“We have joined the race in the last few months and we are really looking forward to these games.

“We need to continue to be aggressive and give everything we have. The points total is very close.

“Swansea are a very, very good side, Gary has done a great job. I spent two years at Swansea and the football club welcomed me straight away. 

“They were amazing for me and the people of the city were very welcoming. I have a great affinity and like to see the club do well they have been doing brilliant.”