Premier League: Aston Villa pay the penalty as Liverpool come from behind to win

Villa had threatened a third successive league victory when Christian Benteke fired them into a first half lead against the run of play.

But Liverpool hit back two minutes after half-time through Jordan Henderson's well-taken chip and Steven Gerrard then stepped up on the hour to convert a penalty after Luis Suarez had been felled inside the box.

The result keeps Villa in the bottom three on goal-difference, while seventh-placed Liverpool slashed the gap to Merseyside rivals Everton to three points.

Villa posed plenty of problems for Liverpool in the first half and Gabriel Agbonlahor should have put the hosts ahead after 17 minutes but fired his close-range shot straight at Pepe Reina.

Benteke had scored twice in the 3-1 win at Anfield earlier in the season and after 31 minutes he put Villa ahead.

Ashley Westwood's long ball was turned back by Agbonlahor to Benteke who drilled a fierce shot past Reina who got a hand on the ball but could not keep it out of the net. It was the 18th goal of the season from the Belgian international.

Liverpool failed to level before the break but did so soon after when Philippe Coutinho's defence-splitting pass was seized on by Henderson who flicked the ball over Guzan into the corner of the net for his fourth goal of the season.

With Liverpool on the front foot and pressure building it came as no surprise when the lively Suarez was needlessly brought down in the box by Nathan Baker and the resulting spot-kick was converted by Gerrard.

Andreas Weimann could have made it 2-2 but scooped his shot over the bar from 10 yards and Gerrard then reacted well at the other end to head Benteke's header off the line at full stretch from a corner.

But Liverpool had succeeded in taking much of the sting out of Villa's attacking threat and quietening the Holte End, who had their late celebrations cut short after Benteke's injury time effort was ruled out for offside.

An elated Brendan Rodgers told Sky Sports after the match: "Our character was outstanding today. I thought we played reasonably well in the first half but we made a mistake and were punished by a good finish from Benteke.

"I thought we created chances in the first half and second half we upped the tempo and going forward we were excellent. Defensively we were nice and solid so it was a terrific win for us. Paul's (Lambert) teams always go right to the end and it was tough for us.

"Our quality was there as was our drive and determination. I thought that tactically we adapted very well and overall I'm very, very pleased. After losing the previous game (against Southampton) you want to bounce back and we did that."

Lambert did not think there was much between the sides but was left to lament two "poor goals".

He said: "I thought first half we were excellent - I really did. There was Gabby's (Agbonlahor's) chance which if he mis-kicks it, it probably goes in but the keeper (Pepe Reina) did well and stood up to it.

"There wasn't much in it in the second half but we never had the fluency which we did have in the first half, but you can't give away goals like we did. It was a definite penalty, I've just seen it."

Asked how disappointed he was to concede so soon after half-time, Lambert added: "It was a poor goal two minutes in, when we were attacking, but Liverpool can do that with the players that they've got. You've always got to be switched on against them but from our point of view it's a poor goal."

Premier League: Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers delighted with fightback at Villa

The Reds were staring down the barrel of back-to-back defeats for the first time under Rodgers when Christian Benteke fired relegation-threatened Villa into a 1-0 lead at half-time.

But the response from Rodgers' men was emphatic; Jordan Henderson stylishly levelling two minutes after the break before Steven Gerrard sealed the points from the penalty spot.

An elated Rodgers told Sky Sports after the match: "Our character was outstanding today. I thought we played reasonably well in the first half but we made a mistake and were punished by a good finish from Benteke.

"I thought we created chances in the first half and second half we upped the tempo and going forward we were excellent. Defensively we were nice and solid so it was a terrific win for us. Paul's (Lambert) teams always go right to the end and it was tough for us.

"Our quality was there as was our drive and determination. I thought that tactically we adapted very well and overall I'm very, very pleased. After losing the previous game (against Southampton) you want to bounce back and we did that."

Rodgers reserved special praise for midfield duo Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson after the pair linked up clinically for Liverpool's equaliser.

He added: "The pass (from Coutinho) and the actual run from Henderson, his determination and desire to go and run forward was outstanding. A wonderful pass and fantastic finish. I'm really pleased for him and young Philippe has great, great quality."

Brendan Rodgers has urged Daniel Sturridge to learn from Luis Suarez

Suarez hit the headlines for the wrong reasons once again this week after an altercation with Chile defender Gonzalo Jara while on international duty for Uruguay.

But Rodgers believes Sturridge, a January signing from Chelsea, can learn from the desire and defensive commitment Suarez shows for the Reds.

"For me the striker drives the train, and when you look at the history of this club, men like Ian Rush, Kenny Dalglish and Robbie Fowler worked incredibly hard," said Rodgers.

"Luis does that too. He is a great leader, the way he presses up there. He has an absolutely amazing appetite for the game.

"Daniel's only just come to the club and it's a new way of working for him. But it's so important because when you don't have the pressure up top, the gaps open up.

"He's only 23 and knows he needs to improve, but he's a real receptive boy, and he can't have anyone better to learn from than Luis."

Rodgers: Reds will keep going

With no silverware to play for and Champions League qualification a distant nine points away with eight matches remaining, the best the Reds can realistically hope for is a Europa League spot.

The surprise defeat at Southampton before the international break brought the momentum of three successive league victories to a crashing halt.

Defender Jamie Carragher has admitted thoughts of a top-four finish "have been put to bed" by defeat at St Mary's but Rodgers insists there is no chance of the players switching off.

"The Southampton result was disappointing and unexpected because we were in great form and playing well," he said.

"It (the international break) has given us a chance to analyse and reflect on it and sometimes you have to after a performance like that when there were no positives.

"It is very important the season doesn't peter out and it can't do.

"We are at a stage of the season when we don't have a trophy to play for as such but we have to fight.

"This is a club where supporters pay good money home and away to watch the club.

"This is a club where there is institutional pride playing for Liverpool.

"Of course we always want to be challenging for trophies but if that is not the case you represent the shirt and the city and every game is vital.

"Every position we can grow in the Premier League this season is important for us.

"We are looking to finish the season with strength and continue. It is very important we finish the season well as that can provide a really good platform for us for next season."

Even though Europa League football is by no means a certainty for Liverpool, Rodgers is confident they will still be able to attract the right players in the summer without it.

"Whether we are in Europe or not we are going to be able to attract good players here," he added.

"That (Europe) is where we would like to be but if it isn't to be then I still believe we will be able to get in players who can improve us.

"That is the challenge, to bring those players in over the coming months."

Liverpool head to Aston Villa tomorrow looking to avenge what was the worst day of Rodgers' first six months in charge when they lost 3-1 at Anfield in yet another shock result.

"Up until that point it was probably the most disappointing (game) because we were in good form going into the game," he said.

"We started the game well and if we had got the early goal the story could have been different.

"But it was a turning point for the better, because the game was a real setback in terms of the result but we had success after that which showed the group was ready to respond.

"We analysed the game and we improved from that. Our goals and mentality have improved significantly.

"It was a disappointing result but it actually helped us in ways going forward which will be important for us."

Villa are just one place above the relegation zone as manager Paul Lambert has struggled to integrate many of the club's promising youngsters.

Rodgers, and by association owners Fenway Sports Group whose transfer policy is focused on younger players with better value for money, has also been criticised by fans for buying potential and not established stars but he accepts there is a fine line to be maintained.

"It is vital you have experience and everyone wants, because of rules coming into football and business-wise, young players so everyone is looking for the players for tomorrow," said the Reds boss.

"But what you have to ensure is you have players for today and with those players you need experience and guys who can help the young players.

"It is no good having players for tomorrow and players who will be good in three or four years' time if you haven't got the players who can help them grow on the field. The balance is key and that is something we are trying to get here.

"I've said over time Paul Lambert will turn the team into a real side that can be challenging and a competitive team and he is an outstanding manager that will do very well."

Liverpool and Tottenham linked with Fenerbahce's Moussa Sow

The 27-year-old Senegal international switched to the Turkish outfit last summer from French side Lille and is under contract until 2016.

While he is not looking to leave his current club, Sow admits he would love to ply his trade in the English Premier League.

He told TRT: "There is a lot of talk. I'm happy at Fenerbahce and don't think about leaving.

"However, everyone knows I want to play in the Premier League one day."

Regarding talk of Liverpool's interest, he added: "If Liverpool made a formal offer, if my club accepted I would be happy to play in England."

Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers dismisses latest reports on future of Luis Suarez

The Uruguay forward appeared to suggest he would be willing to leave Anfield to join a Champions League club in the summer during an interview in his homeland ahead of last week's World Cup qualifiers.

Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre insisted Suarez had been misquoted, and Rodgers believes the last round of rumours are of "no great relevance to Liverpool".

Ahead of Sunday's trip to Aston Villa, Rodgers said: "I haven't spoken to Luis yet. He was back late on Thursday and we just ran the medical team over him and he trained on Friday.

"All I am aware of is we have an outstanding player who has given everything for the club and he is very happy here.

"Every time he goes away, there is always something. I always say to players I have a simple rule: when you are with Liverpool just talk about Liverpool and when you are away with your international team concentrate on your international team so there is no drama.

"So what he says when he is with Uruguay is of no great relevance to Liverpool."

Rodgers has also played down claims from Ajax technical director Marc Overmars that Liverpool scouts have been making "regular" checks on midfielder Christian Eriksen.

"If you read what he says, he says we've had scouts there - but we could have been watching any of them, we could have been watching players from the other team," Rodgers added. "I won't speculate on anything."

Gerrard backed to keep going

The midfielder, who turns 33 in May, has played every minute of Liverpool's 30 Premier League matches this season, and that has seen him score eight goals and provide nine assists.

Gerrard, like the rest of his team-mates, has benefited from a new training and recovery programme tailored to individual needs, and Driscoll believes that is reflected in his performances.

"We had confidence that, if managed correctly, Steven would be able to achieve everything he has achieved this year," Driscoll said.

"Four or five years ago, people were saying it was very unlikely that Steven - with his injury history - would ever achieve this, let alone reach the milestones he has hit this year in terms of playing time at the age of 32.

"It's a credit to Steven himself; his professionalism is second to none.

"Steven has confidence now that he can play at the highest level into his mid-30s - that's fantastic news for Liverpool."

The club's medical department underwent an overhaul when new manager Brendan Rodgers took over in the summer and Driscoll thinks those changes are now making a significant difference.

"We have around 90 per cent availability rate this year with injuries, which is really good," he told Liverpoolfc.com.

"We've hit all the targets that we wanted to from a medical science perspective.

"We've looked very fit and we're pleased that we've made them fit for purpose.

"Naturally, if you've got most of your players available, it's clearly going to improve the probability of winning games."

Jones urges patient approach

With owners Fenway Sports Group looking to run the club on a more sound footing with Financial Fair Play in mind, the Reds are never likely to be in a position to compete with Europe's biggest spenders.

While the Americans have provided funds for significant purchases in the past, there is still a desire to see more value for money attained in the transfer market.

So with the likes of Raheem Sterling, Andre Wisdom and Suso all making significant contributions to the first team this season, the intention is for the club's academy to play a bigger role in the future.

Jones believes this, added to the progress made under manager Brendan Rodgers, points to a brighter future as they look to regain Champions League status.

"It is difficult to say (how much ground we have to make up)," said the Australian, speaking at an event for charity Anthony Nolan.

"The likes of Chelsea and Manchester City have spent unbelievable amounts of money. Liverpool haven't necessarily done that.

"It was documented a couple of years ago when the new owners came in and spent a fair bit in one go but you have to remember 50million of that came in from Fernando Torres.

"If you ask the teams that have, shall we say, 'bought' a winning team I don't think their fans will care because they have won something.

"But if you get to the top from building I think the fans grow with the team.

"When you get there there will be that extra bit of pride but for us we just have to keep building on what we have got and what the club have done."

Jones added: "The club aren't trying to go out and buy the league in one season.

"The owners are quite clever, they have seen it in other sports. For them it is a slow process, it is not going to happen overnight.

"I think they will be happy with what they have seen this season and obviously they will want it to move forward and make that next step and hopefully that will be next season.

"That is the direction we're going in and it is a good place to be."

Jones and his partner Dani Lawrence are prominent supporters of Anthony Nolan, the UK blood cancer charity, after the goalkeeper's six-year-old son Luca from a previous relationship died from leukaemia in November 2011.

They were present at an event at Anfield, also supported by the Liverpool FC Foundation, aimed at promoting the donor register.

"It was something that, after we lost Luca, we wanted to spread the word and get people on the list and have a legacy for him," explained Jones.

"When people hear bone marrow transplant they think 'pain' and it is really not like that, it is more like giving blood, and it is trying to get rid of those negative connotations.

"We are in a privileged position where I am at a massive club and people will follow what we do and listen to what we are saying.

"Obviously it is a positive to get people on the register and that means there is more chance of people getting a donor.

"We are trying to help others because it wasn't until we were there we realised just how hard it was."

Mark Haig, head of operations at the LFC Foundation, said the club occupied a unique position in being able to reach areas of the community others could not.

"The Foundation is quite broad but this initiative around Anthony Nolan we are very much supporting because we have a very close relationship with Liverpool NHS," he said.

"We can actually connect easier than agencies like the NHS because of the power of the LFC badge and the way people respond to it in different ways."

Reina and Carragher could return

First-choice goalkeeper Reina has missed the Reds' last two games with a calf problem while veteran defender Carragher was ruled out of the defeat at Southampton earlier this month with a shin injury.

Reina has since been on the bench for Spain's internationals against Finland last week and France on Tuesday.

First-team coach Mike Marsh told the club's website: "They're both available for selection, so it's a possibility."

Liverpool have reported no fresh injury concerns following the latest round of international fixtures.

Marsh said: "We seem to have come through unscathed.

"We've got one or two players missing who are flying back from international duty.

"They will arrive back tomorrow, they will still be in recovery and hopefully they will train on Friday."

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher delighted with recent form

At the start of the 2012/13 campaign, it was suggested that the veteran centre-half would struggle to hold down a regular role when faced with competition from the likes of Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel.

Carragher did drop out of the Liverpool side for a spell, but has forced his way back into Brendan Rodgers' thoughts since Christmas.

He has justified his inclusion with a number of assured displays and is delighted to have played his part in the Reds' resurgence.

The 35-year-old has already announced that he will retire at the end of the season, and he is hoping he can maintain his high standards and bow out on a high.

Carragher told the Liverpool Echo: "At the start of the season I was aware that some people were saying I wouldn't suit Rodgers' style of football. But I think I have put that to bed in the last few games I have played.

"I think I've played well this season, without blowing my own trumpet. Even earlier in the season when I was playing in Europe and in the Carling Cup, I was quite pleased with how I performed.

"Hopefully I can carry that through to the end of the season.

"I enjoy the international week because you get to see some of the young lads who have come down from the academy.

"It's a good time to recharge physically and mentally and get ready for Aston Villa (on Sunday)."

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers praises Jordan Henderson's attitude

Henderson has not started the last four Premier League games for the Reds, which has seen victories over Swansea, Wigan and Spurs followed by a 3-1 defeat at Southampton last time out.

But Rodgers knows if he needs to juggle his resources and bring the midfielder into his starting line-up, the 22-year-old will be ready to play his part.

Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo: "It's just the balance and it depends on the opponent.

"Jordan has been excellent and his attitude has been great. The team has been winning as well.

"But Jordan has been excellent, he's a good player, he's improving tactically all the time and I know if I need to call on him he will be ready."

Juventus rule out making an imminent move for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez

The Uruguayan last week stunned Liverpool by revealing he would be willing to leave Anfield, triggering interest from around Europe.

However, Marotta insisted Juventus are not about to make a bid for either Suarez, Barcelona's Alexis Sanchez or Paris Saint-Germain's Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

He told Italia 2: "Who would I like as a birthday gift between Sanchez and Suarez? I am happy with our players and I cherish them. At this time of the season, we don't think about the [transfer] market.

"Ibrahimovic? He is a champion, but Juventus has economic parameters, which must be respected, and his salary is higher than these."

Marotta also ruled out coach Antonio Conte leaving the club.

He added: "There is not clause in his contract, but I think he will remain for many years and may get a lot of satisfaction from Juventus."

Gerrard desperate for result

Roy Hodgson's side will go into the Group H qualifying clash in Podgorica two points adrift of the group leaders after both countries triumphed - against San Marino and Moldova respectively - on Friday evening.

But Gerrard has faith in his team-mates to come away with a positive result in the final qualifier for six months.

When asked if the outcome will go a long way to deciding the group, Gerrard said: "I wouldn't say so. I don't think the result is crucial.

"Yes, it is very important and puts either side in control of the group who wins.

"But I don't think it's the end of the world if we don't get the result we want.

"We are confident to do a job here. I think a defeat here would be very damaging to us. Let's hope that is not the case. We are confident to get a result."

Gerrard believes England will have to play to their potential to achieve a positive result.

He said: "We believe, if we play to our level, we are more than capable of three points and that's what we have come here for.

"We know we've got to play close to our maximum to beat this good team. We know if we play anywhere near our level, we will get the result.

"We are concentrating on what the manager wants of us, to be very good defensively and play attacking football when we get the ball."

Gerrard, who missed the 2-2 draw in Podgorica 17 months ago through injury, will relish playing in such a crucial fixture.

But he will not be making any special speech in the dressing room before the game.

He said: "These are the big games you want to play in. These are the atmospheres and stages you want to perform on as a player and a team.

"We will get a lot of credit if we get the result.

"Will I say anything before game? Not really. I just say my piece along with anyone else who wants to speak as well. The manager gives all the players the opportunity to speak.

"I don't think this is a game for talking. All the players realise how important it is and we need to do our talking on the pitch

"I've got a lot of confidence in my team-mates. They've got some wonderful technicians but I've got confidence we are a better team if we play to our ability."

Jones happy with performances

Injuries to first-choice Jose Reina has meant the Australian has featured 15 times for the first team - having played just four times in two previous seasons - and started the last two league matches.

"To have had 15 appearances is probably more than I would have thought I'd get at the start of the season," he told the club's website.

"I feel as though in the majority, I have performed fairly well, so I'm happy.

"Obviously circumstances dictate when I am going to get those games but I am more than happy to have had those games.

"I wouldn't mind a few more but I think it's been a decent season all in all."

Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina has 'very good' relationship with Brendan Rodgers

Goalkeeper Reina has struggled for form and fitness at times this season, and that has prompted speculation he could be sold by Rodgers in the summer.

However, the Spain international has no problems with the Liverpool boss and is pleased with the direction that the team are heading in under Rodgers.

"My relationship with the manager is very good," Reina said in the Liverpool Echo. "I think we have got a lot of ideas in common. There is understanding about tactics and the way we see football is quite similar.

"I am very happy with our manager.

"He is making sure we are learning every day the way to win and that's important. If we play good football then we will be closer to winning games.

"There's no doubt I am more involved with my feet than before but so is the team. The amount of passes in every game is going higher and higher compared to last season. It's a different style and philosophy - I am happy about it.

"I think given time and as long as the players follow him it will be good. It will become a great side - one which is difficult to beat."

Brian Eastick: Brendan Rodgers' kid gloves approach has helped Raheem Sterling

The teenage winger was a regular in the Reds' starting line-up at the start of the season, when his form brought a full England cap against Sweden.

But Brendan Rodgers' has started Sterling just twice in the Premier League in 2013, and England U21s benefited on Thursday as the well-rested 18-year-old starred in the friendly win against Romania.

Coach Brian Eastick said: "He was very good. Brendan has obviously rested him a little bit recently.

"He hasn't played a great deal of football of late so getting a game under his belt with benefit him. He is a talented player and I think possibly that rest has helped.

"Brendan felt he had to take him out of the firing line a little bit at Liverpool. He is a very young player and people forget how young he is. You do need to rest players at the right time.

"Possibly it has done him a little bit of good and he enjoyed his game against Romania. His performance was very good."

Philippe Coutinho wants to be a 'big player' at Liverpool

The 20-year-old Brazilian has already impressed on Merseyside since making the move from Inter Milan in January, notching up two goals and two assists from his four starts.

Coutinho is happy with how things are going and the playmaker hopes he can establish himself as an important player for the Reds.

"Things have gone really well for me here so far," Coutinho, who spent time on loan at Espanyol last season, told the Liverpool Echo.

"Maybe because I played in Italy and spent six months in Spain last season that has helped me adapt more quickly to English football.

"Also I must thank my team-mates as they have helped me a lot with my first few games. Everyone has made me feel so welcome.

He added: "The games are quicker and more physical but I like that. I am learning all the time.

"Every player wants to improve and get better and I am the same. I am still young and have so much still to learn.

"I hope to be here for many years and become a big player for Liverpool. I will continue to work hard and do my best to improve my performances and help Liverpool."

Faith

Coutinho is enjoying working under manager Brendan Rodgers and wants to repay his faith by helping the club back to success.

"The manager here is still young but he's an excellent person and a very good coach. He speaks openly to everyone and I'm pleased to be working with him," he said.

"The manager has shown a lot of faith in me and hopefully I will repay that. I want to win some titles here to compensate the club for what they've done for me."

The Brazilian does not speak English and has the help of an interpreter but says he is keen to pick up the language.

He added: "Communication between myself and my team-mates is still a bit difficult. The people here speak very fast so it's difficult to pick up the words but I'm trying.

"If the manager wants to get some information across to me in training he speaks Spanish. (Fellow Brazilian) Lucas has also helped me a lot."

Allen has successful surgery

The 23-year-old Welshman has already been ruled out for the remainder of the current season but the operation has been declared a success.

Glen Driscoll, Liverpool's head of performance, told the club's official website on Thursday: "Joe Allen had surgery this morning, which went very well.

"It's going to be a relief for Joe that this has now happened for him. It has been quite a long-standing issue. He was repetitively subluxing, so his shoulder was coming out very easily and very often.

"It was a procedure that was very important. He should be fighting fit for the start of pre-season."

Allen has been troubled by the injury to his left shoulder since November last year, and he aggravated the problem in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Southampton.

Allen to miss rest of season

The 23-year-old withdrew from the Wales squad on Sunday because of the long-standing issue with his left shoulder, and the club then decided to bring forward plans for an operation.

Allen has had the problem for some time, but it began to get worse about five months ago and has now reached the point where corrective intervention is required.

"Joe Allen is due to have a left shoulder operation tomorrow morning in Liverpool and will be ready to return to football at the beginning of next season," first team doctor Zaf Iqbal told Liverpool's official website.

Agger foresees Reds success

The Reds cannot win any silverware this season, and their seventh-place position, nine points off the top four, all but rules out Champions League qualification.

An extended absence from Europe's elite competition - Liverpool have not played in the Champions League since 2009-10 - causes further issues in relation to the recruitment and retention of players.

Agger, though, foresees a bright future at Anfield.

"It is a club that will have trophies, I think it goes without saying," said the centre-back.

"I believe it will come, of course. It will not be this year, because we are changing the style of play as we have not got the results we would have wanted but we have played well.

"There have been a few worries and it has something to do with stability and we must also have a bigger squad.

"These are the things we need to work towards next season.

"If we can keep the same level in more matches than we do this year it will look better for next season."

Agger credited Rodgers with having a positive impact on his fitness, which has allowed him to have his best run in the side.

The 28-year-old has started 29 of Liverpool's 30 Premier League matches, missing one only because of suspension.

Agger has made just four other appearances in the Europa League as Rodgers has sought to manage the defender both on and off the pitch.

"For me it's about being fit and I've been the fittest in years," the Denmark captain, preparing for World Cup qualifiers against Czech Republic and Bulgaria, told Danish website Sporten.

"I have not missed a game because of an injury and I think that is the first time in my career.

"Brendan Rodgers is undoubtedly the reason I have played all the matches without injuries this year and I cannot be anything but pleased.

"I must give the new coaching team great credit for it, but especially the new manager gets the greatest credit for this.

"It is not I who can take these decisions, it is he who has decided to adjust my training specifically for me.

"The new coaching team have come up with a form of exercise taking into account the individual, and it is something I have needed.

"My training volume is scaled down and then I have an increased recovery period."

Rodgers hails Shelvey attitude

The 21-year-old - who has found first team chances limited in recent weeks - has asked to play for Liverpool's U21 side to gain more game time, something that has impressed his manager.

Rodgers said: "Jonjo is a great kid, he wants to learn and he is prepared to work hard. He hasn't had so many chances recently, but he is still a great prospect.

"He played in a reserve game recently, and asked to be used in the holding position because he wants to learn about the role, and about his craft.

"That shows the attitude he has."

Suarez happy with Anfield progress

The Uruguay international has scored 29 times so far and is the top flight's leading scorer with 22, becoming only the third Reds player to go past 20 Premier League goals in a single campaign after Robbie Fowler and Fernando Torres.

Suarez's form has regularly seen him linked with clubs who can offer him Champions League football but the 26-year-old has constantly stressed he is happy at Anfield, having only signed an improved contract less than 12 months ago which will bring him a significant pay rise in the summer.

"I'm having a nice time because the club is growing and I feel I'm helping personally," said Suarez, who is back in Uruguay preparing for crucial World Cup qualifiers at home to Paraguay on Friday and in Chile on Tuesday.

"I do not know if I'm in the best form but I feel like it's my fate to score and I have to take advantage."

A booking in the first match would rule him out of the second, which would no doubt be a welcome boost for Rodgers ahead of next week's trip to Aston Villa as the player is not expected to return to Melwood until the Friday afternoon.

But with Uruguay's qualification on a knife-edge - they are currently fifth in the South American group having taken just one point from their last four games - Suarez knows he has to strike a fine balance.

"The way referees are now I have to take care," he told Uruguay newspaper El Observador.

"The two games ahead are complicated but we must be aware that they are the last chances we have left."

While Suarez has once again been insisting he is content at Anfield team-mate Jose Reina has been doing the same.

The Spain goalkeeper has been heavily linked with a move away this summer with former club Barcelona seemingly top of the list as they are on the look-out for a long-term replacement for Victor Valdes.

Reina, who could make a rare start for Spain in their World Cup qualifiers because of injury to Real Madrid's Iker Casillas, has dismissed the speculation.

"I believe that is conjecture. It's not in my hands and the rumour mill is part of this," he told Spanish newspaper AS.

"It's a great club (Barcelona) but I'm happy at Liverpool."

Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen, who pulled out of Wales' squad on Sunday, is set to undergo an operation on a troublesome shoulder injury later this week.

Surgery will rule out the 15million summer signing for the remainder of the season but it provides an opening for the likes of Jordan Henderson and Jonjo Shelvey.

Both have found first-team opportunities restricted in recent weeks with the latter getting more game time for Liverpool's under-21s side than the seniors.

That hard work and willingness to drop down a level has not gone unnoticed by Rodgers.

"Jonjo is a great kid, he wants to learn and he is prepared to work hard," he told liverpoolfc.com

"He hasn't had so many chances recently but he is still a great prospect.

"He played in a reserve game recently and asked to be used in the holding position because he wants to learn about the role and about his craft.

"That shows the attitude he has."

Lambert loved win over Liverpool

The 31-year-old saw his first-half free-kick deflect in off Daniel Sturridge to put relegation-threatened Saints on course for an invaluable victory at St Mary's on Saturday.

Lambert's 13 goals makes him the top English scorer in the Premier League this season and has led to talk of a call-up to Roy Hodgson's national team.

It is a far cry from the beetroot factory he worked in little over a decade ago and the years spent plying his trade in the lower leagues.

"I am still pinching myself," Lambert said. "I am really enjoying the season.

"Obviously there have been some lows but the highs have been unbelievable and I am confident there are plenty more to come in my career, hopefully at Southampton.

"It is going really well but we're still not safe, there are still points to be taken, but the lads are absolutely buzzing after that result.

"I think everybody knows the relationship I have with Liverpool.

"It was a massive game and my family were there, but obviously I am professional and my main focus was to try and get three points.

"I am just over the moon that my goal helped get three points."

It is a victory that gives Southampton a seven-point cushion over the drop zone ahead of Sunday's fixtures.

"It was massively important that we got the three points," Lambert said.

"I think we have been unlucky these last few weeks and deserved a few more points than what we've got.

"But I don't really like saying that, I am just happy to say we got the three points.

"You can say all day that you're unlucky and that, but it is the points that matter and we managed to get the points along with a great performance, which is even better."

The defeat of Liverpool was a relief for Southampton as all too often their performances have not been rewarded with points.

Saints have been praised for the high pressing game employed since Mauricio Pochettino replaced Nigel Adkins, although Saturday was just his second win in eight matches at the helm.

"As long as we perform like that for him, he is fine no matter what the result is," Lambert said of the Argentinian.

"When we're not following what he is trying to say, that is when he gets frustrated.

"I think we've done well the last few games and been a little unlucky, but we have now managed to get the three points."

Lambert was also quick to praise fellow frontman Jay Rodriguez, who provided the assist for Morgan Schneiderlin's opener and made sure of victory by scoring 10 minutes from time.

The former Burnley man has not enjoyed the easiest of times since his 6million move from Burnley but was inspired form against Liverpool, putting in his best performance in a Saints shirt.

"I think Jay is a terrific player," Lambert said. "I think striker is his best position and when we have played in that position together we've damaged sides.

"It was good to see him get that terrific goal at the end. I was absolutely over the moon for him."

Henderson still eyeing Euro spot

The Reds' three-match winning run in the league, which had raised slim hopes of sneaking into the Champions League, was brought to a shuddering halt with the 3-1 loss at St Mary's.

However, while the top four - now nine points away - is realistically out of reach Henderson believes seventh-placed Liverpool can still secure a place in European competition next season.

"It was a big disappointment against Southampton but Europe's not gone yet," he said.

"We've still got eight games to play and that's a lot of points to play for.

"We've still got to play some of the teams above us so we have to keep going.

"We have to pick ourselves up from this and ensure we respond positively against Aston Villa after the international break."

Henderson has played just 56 minutes in the league since his last start on February 11.

He accepts it has been difficult to break into a winning side but is hoping for an opportunity with Joe Allen set to have an operation on a shoulder injury seemingly sooner rather than later after pulling out of Wales' squad yesterday.

"I've just got to keep working hard," he told the Liverpool Echo.

"Before Saturday, the team had been playing brilliantly so I can't complain.

"You can't really change a winning team so I've understood why I've not played.

"I just have to make sure that when the manager needs me I'm ready to take my chance."

Joe Allen and Steve Morison out of Wales squad, Jermaine Easter called up

Liverpool midfielder Allen has aggravated a troublesome shoulder problem which almost saw him miss out on Chris Coleman's original squad, while Leeds striker Morison has pulled out due to a calf injury.

Coleman responded by calling up Jermaine Easter, who is currently on loan at Millwall from their south London rivals Crystal Palace and scored in the win over Charlton on Saturday.

The boss had expected Allen to play a part in the qualifiers, despite his injury, revealing earlier this week that he had not heard anything from Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers to suggest otherwise.

Allen requires surgery on his shoulder problem, a procedure that will sideline him for around three months, and both the player and his club are keen to have the operation soon in order to be fully fit for next season.

The 23-year-old was named in the starting line-up for Liverpool's 3-1 defeat to Southampton on Saturday, but he was withdrawn at half-time.

Coleman's men are seven points adrift of Group A pacesetters Croatia and Belgium and face an uphill battle if they are to end their long wait for a place at a major finals.

Liverpool winger Stewart Downing upset after losing at Southampton

Following their stunning victory against Tottenham a week before, the Reds arrived in buoyant mood at St Mary's on Saturday but were second best throughout.

It was a dismal result against a team battling for Premier League survival and left the visitors seven points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.

"If you can beat Tottenham at home, you should come here and win," Downing told the club's official website. "If you want to be in the top four, you have to come to places like this and win.

"That's easier said than done. It's difficult with them being in a relegation fight and playing for the new manager as well. I still think we had chances in the game considering we didn't play well. We started too late and the game was over."

Early goals by Morgan Schneiderlin and Rickie Lambert left Liverpool rocking and only a Philippe Coutinho goal earned them minor consolation with Jay Rodriguez slotting in a cool third for the impressive hosts.

"We just didn't start brightly enough," Downing added. "The manager said we didn't start playing until we were 2-0 down. He stressed from the start that this was a difficult game, probably one of the hardest of the season.

"They are scrapping for their lives and, to be fair, they were the better team on the day. You've got to give them credit for that. We started too late."

Brendan Rodgers said Liverpool weren't at their best against Southampton

Liverpool had won three Premier League games in a row to raise hopes of European qualification, but produced a ragged performance at St Mary's, particularly in the first half.

Rodgers was disappointed with the goals his side conceded on the South Coast and admitted Liverpool did not get going until they were 2-0 down.

"I thought Southampton deserved to win," Rodgers told Sky Sports. "We were nowhere near what we've been in the last number of weeks.

"It's very difficult at this level whenever you make the start we made today of being two goals behind. We only started to play when it went to 2-0.

"The three goals conceded were disappointing goals today, but in between the second goal and the third goal we were very good.

"We got to 2-1 just before half-time and had more fluency and flow in our game. We created chances, but then conceded a poor third goal that was far too easy and from that perspective it was bitterly disappointing."

The international break means Liverpool do not play for a fortnight and Rodgers wants a positive response in the next game at Aston Villa.

He added: "I said before the game that this game was arguably going to be one of the toughest games for us this season and overall I can't complain.

"We weren't at our best and we're not the sort of team yet when, if we're not at our best, we can see through results.

"We have to lick our wounds for a couple of weeks before the next game, and we have to make sure it was a one-off and we get back to how we were playing, at a real high level and with confidence."

Premier League: Southampton impress in 3-1 home win over Liverpool

In a dominant first-half performance, goals from Morgan Schneiderlin and a deflected Rickie Lambert free-kick put Mauricio Pochettino's side in the ascendancy.

Philippe Coutinho got Liverpool back into the game just before the interval, but Jay Rodriguez scored a deserved third goal with 10 minutes to go to lift Southampton seven points away from the relegation zone.

Southampton were ahead after just six minutes when Rodriguez nodded down Gaston Ramirez's cross into the path of Schneiderlin, who nonchalantly flicked the ball past Brad Jones.

Liverpool were sluggish for much of the first half and almost fell further behind on 10 minutes when Jones had to come off his line to deny Lambert after the striker had broken free.

Rodriguez had a well-struck shot from distance saved before the forward volleyed over on the turn from close range after Jones had parried Adam Lallana's attempt from a tight angle.

All Liverpool had to offer was an ambitious 35-yard shot from Daniel Sturridge which was easily gathered by Artur Boruc before Southampton extended their lead on 33 minutes.

The home side were awarded a free-kick 30 yards from goal and Lambert's shot took a wicked deflection off the jumping Sturridge before creeping inside the post.

Jones then saved again from Rodriguez before Coutinho had the chance to pull a goal back five minutes before half-time after bursting clear, only to shoot straight at Boruc.

Southampton were playing some sublime football on the South Coast and another slick move created an opening for Lallana, but he shot just wide.

Liverpool gave themselves hope for the second half by scoring in first-half stoppage-time when Coutinho fired home the loose ball after Sturridge's shot had been blocked.

Chances proved to be more scarce after half-time, with Sturridge scuffing wide before Suarez and Steven Gerrard both drew comfortable saves out of Boruc.

Jones was out again to deny Lallana on 77 minutes, but three minutes later he was beaten for a third time when Rodriguez was allowed to run virtually unchallenged from the halfway line and he tucked away the rebound after his initial shot had been pushed out by the Liverpool keeper.

Mauicio Pochettino: Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho can be as good as Lionel Messi

The Brazilian has enjoyed a promising start at Anfield since joining from Inter Milan in January, and also attracted interest from Southampton during the transfer window.

Pochettino knows the 20-year-old midfielder well after coaching him during a loan spell at Espanyol last season, and admits he could cause Southampton problems when Liverpool visit St Mary's on Saturday.

"Philippe is a Brazilian player and, as it happens with most Brazilians, he has a special magic in his feet," said the Saints boss.

"Aside from the magic that he has, he also has an amazing work-rate and that makes us doubt whether he fits the mould of a typical Brazilian player or a European one because his work ethic is outstanding.

"What is important about him is he is a good lad, a good kid - a great, humble person.

"I do think Coutinho has that same quality that Ronaldinho and Messi have, but he has much to prove yet.

"What is really clear to me is that Coutinho is a really responsible player - really dedicated and responsible to his own players."