The 20-year-old Brazilian has proved a revelation in the Barclays Premier League since joining the Reds in January from Inter Milan.

His winning strike against Queens Park Rangers on Sunday was his third goal in 13 appearances, adding to a string of sumptuous assists.

“When you bring somebody in during January you hope they can make an impact,” the manager reflected. ”You are also looking at it as a six-month adaptation period before you get the best out of them from preseason onwards.

“We are all pleasantly pleased and surprised by how well he has done. His numbers tell you the story in terms of goals and assists. At the minute, you can’t ask any more. The key thing is that he works his socks off as well. He is a real team player.”

Supporters have been equally impressed by the attacking midfielder’s willingness to work defensively and courage in the challenge — qualities which Rodgers has observed too.

“We are all pleasantly pleased and surprised by how well he has done. His numbers tell you the story in terms of goals and assists. He’s been a real find for us in terms of the price we paid.”

“He has genuine man strength,” the Northern Irishman added. “He’s 20 years of age but he’s not a boy. He can look after himself. His body work is great, he is small in stature.

“The best players very rarely get tackled because they are so bright and clever. You can see he can use his body if needs be, but he has to become adapted to the physical game here as the Premier League is very physical.

“He’s been a real find for us in terms of the price we paid. Hopefully his value will be much greater than the cost in the coming years.”

Photo via Liverpoolfc.com

The 17-year-old, who has impressed in the club’s youth sides throughout 2012-13, featured for 63 minutes against the London outfit and created the winning goal for Philippe Coutinho.

“I feel over the moon to be playing at Liverpool in such an important match, especially [Jamie] Carragher‘s last match,” he told LFC TV after the win.

“I found out I was in the squad yesterday but I wasn’t too sure if I was going to start. Brendan [Rodgers]  told me to be prepared. Yesterday evening and this morning I was just focused and calm.

“I thought I did okay, especially getting an assist for Coutinho’s goal and helping the club win three points. The manager told me that I did well, I just need to keep pressing and stay compact.”

Having completed the campaign with a landmark moment, how much is the energetic and enthusiastic wide-man looking forward to progressing further next season?

“I feel very confident because now I’ve played here, I’ve got a little bit of experience so I know what it takes to play here,” the No. 44 added. “Hopefully I can build on that and take it into the new season.”

Photo via LiverpoolFC.com

Philippe Coutinho

The result was the perfect send-off for Carragher, who played the 737th and final game of his glittering 17-year Liverpool career.

The Reds stalwart came within inches of a dream finale when his brilliant second-half effort from distance rattled the post.

Jordon Ibe enjoyed an encouraging senior debut and this was epitomized by his first-half assist for the opening goal.

Just two minutes into the encounter, Coutinho was unfortunate to be foiled by a refereeing decision when his attempt was deemed to not have been a goal.

The unmarked Brazilian met a Stewart Downing corner with a header that appeared to cross the line before it was cleared, although appeals for an opener were ignored.

Reminiscent of recent fixtures, Coutinho was an influential force yet again and created a chance for himself in the 18th minute.

The 20-year-old skipped past a challenge with ease before dragging a low shot wide.

The youngster certainly atoned for his wayward shooting in the 23rd minute with a thunderous strike that broke the deadlock.

After being teed up by Ibe, Coutinho wasted little time before hammering an unstoppable 25-yard drive that fizzed beyond the outstretched arm of Robert Green and into the corner.

Liverpool didn’t allow the goal to alter their momentum as they maintained pressure on the visitors for the remainder of the half.

A typically powerful surging run forward from Glen Johnson resulted in the fullback scooping a left-footed attempt over the crossbar. Meanwhile, the Reds restricted QPR to more speculative efforts, such as Andros Townsend‘s audacious long-range shot that flew well wide of the target.

In identical fashion to the opening period, the Reds troubled the visitors’ back line immediately.

The first of a flurry of attempts came from Jose Enrique when the Spaniard’s deflected 25-yard drive was parried away by Green.

A minute later, the energetic Ibe came agonizingly close to finding the net in stunning circumstances. The winger shuffled inside from the left flank before rifling a vicious effort that flashed across the face of goal.

Five minutes into the second half, yet another Reds shot changed course and forced Green into making an improvised save.

Johnson raced into the 18-yard box and fired a powerful shot that ricocheted towards the top corner, forcing the QPR custodian to change direction and palm the danger away.

Shortly after, Carragher came painfully close to capping off his final Reds appearance in simply amazing fashion.

As the loose ball fell to the feet of the defender 25 yards from goal, Carragher swiftly spun and slammed a beautifully struck drive that crashed off the post.

The Reds poured forward in the final quarter of an hour as they looked to end the season on a high.

With 10 minutes remaining, substitute Suso‘s stinging effort from an acute angle could only be parried into the path of Downing by Green. The winger responded with a goal-bound effort that was unfortunately blocked.

As the end of the match approached, Carragher was replaced by Sebastian Coates, allowing the defender to receive a standing ovation from the Reds faithful as he bade a fond farewell to Anfield.

Liverpoolfc.com journalists’ man of the match: Jamie Carragher.

Photo via Liverpoolfc.com

The Liverpool duo are part of coach Roy Hodgson‘s 22-man selection for the matches at Wembley on May 29 and Rio de Janeiro on June 2.

Andy Carroll, currently on loan at West Ham United, is also in the squad.

England squad in full:

Ben Foster, Joe Hart, Alex McCarthy, Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Phil Jagielka, Johnson, Phil Jones, Joleon Lescott, Kyle Walker, Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley, Frank Lampard, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Andy Carroll, Jermain Defoe, Wayne Rooney, Sturridge, Danny Welbeck.

One game to go. How are you feeling about retirement now?

Carragher: People keep asking me. The answer will come after the game. We just want to concentrate on the game. I’m looking forward to getting my tickets sorted and hopefully get a win, then I can look back and give you a better answer.

Have you, at any time, reconsidered retirement, or has Brendan [Rodgers] asked you to reconsider?

Carragher: No, not really. We’ve had a couple of chats about different things over the season, not just since I made my decision. The more I’ve been in the team, the more I’ve wanted to stick with my decision and go out playing. I’ve been quite fortunate really that at the time that I announced it, I kept myself in the side. I can go out playing, which is something I’d prefer rather than maybe stay another year and be in the stand, on the bench or wherever it may be.

What will be the best memory of your Liverpool career?

Carragher: Istanbul. Nothing will beat that — the [UEFA] Champions League final. There’s no point going over the game. I think we all know what happened that night. It’s difficult to ever top that.

What was it like, that feeling, to lift the European Cup?

Carragher: We’ve never won the league, which is a disappointment. If we’d have won that, maybe I could have compared the two. We’ve won FA Cups, Carling Cups, the UEFA Cup, but nothing compared to the Champions League. It’s the biggest and best trophy that you can win as a footballer in club football. It’s what we achieved.

Given the step you’re taking after your football career, does it rule out management or is that something you’re still looking at in the future?

Carragher: I’ve never ruled anything out or in. I’ve gone down this road for a couple of years. I’ll see if I enjoy it or if I’m any good at it, and see where it takes me. I’ve been playing football all my life, and I’m looking forward to doing different things and seeing where it takes me.

How emotional are you going to be at the weekend?

Carragher: I won’t be crying, put it that way!

Are you somebody who might have a “Wish I could have…”  when you retire?

Carragher: I wish I’d have won the league. But you’ve given it everything and done as much as you can in terms of what you put into it. It’s a team game. There are different managers and coaches who have helped you along the way. You do your best. I’ve done all right.

You’ve been part of a close-knit family for all of those years. That’s a big part of your life that’s suddenly going to change.

Carragher: People automatically think of Anfield. I think of this place [Melwood]. This is where you come every day. This is where I’ve been coming since I was nine years of age. Anfield is sort of the icing on the cake where you go at the end of the week or every couple of weeks. It’s special, but this is where you come every day, the people you see, the people on the gate, the girls upstairs in the canteen, Ann on reception who is the only one who has been here longer than me — she’s just pipped me. It’s probably coming here and the characters and people you meet every day. You’ll have to fill that void in your life.

Will the door still be open for you? Do you plan on coming back?

Carragher: Ask Brendan on Friday. He’s the boss. Once you’re done, you’re done. I’m sure I’ll be welcome to come in for my lunch one day and watch training, but I don’t think it’s something I’ll be doing.

When did you first realize it was time to go?

Carragher: About 12 months ago, the end of the season. I was in and out of the side with Kenny. I was thinking about it in the summer, but I had a year to go and a new manager coming in. I knew then it was always going to be my last season.

Going back to your debut, would have you taken then what you have achieved?

Carragher: If someone had offered me to be here until the end of my career — the trophies, the big games we’ve played and won, the stadiums I’ve played in — I’d have bitten their hand off for that. I’m very lucky to have played with some great players, top managers and given the opportunity to experience those wins and sometimes losses. I’ve very lucky.

You mentioned the league title … why did Liverpool fall short?

Carragher: Very simple — we weren’t good enough, all of us. There’s no fancy reason or excuse. Other teams in that particular season were better than us. A couple of times we went close, but it was Manchester United or Arsenal. It’s not something I lose sleep over. I’ve been very lucky to achieve some of the things I have. If you look at everyone, there’s always something someone hasn’t done. There’s always more to achieve, whatever you’ve done. I’m pleased with how it’s gone.

You and Steven Gerrard always seem to be together — are there any concerns about Liverpool not having that local heartbeat in the team when you’ve gone?

Carragher: I’m probably more concerned about who he’s going to sit next to on the coach on the way home. I had that problem at the weekend coming back from Fulham when he wasn’t there. I was on my own!

Every club will say they want to bring players through from the academy — that’s why you have academies and put so much time and money into it. But the players have got to be good enough. If they’re good enough, brilliant — get them in there. It’s always good to have a few local lads in the side. That’s the aim of everyone.

Now that Alex Ferguson has retired at Manchester United, does it give everyone else an opportunity?

Carragher: I think it does a little bit more. He’s obviously been a top manager — his record is there for all to see. They’ve got another top manager in David Moyes. I’m sure he’ll do a great job there. I’m sure everyone is looking at it and seeing how it will go. Maybe it will give other people a chance to get in there if there is maybe a bit of uncertainty at the club. But Manchester United are probably aware of that as well, so I’m sure they’ll be doing everything to stop that.

In terms of the Liverpool you’re leaving, are you excited about the future of the club?

Carragher: I am. I’m always positive about the club. The last few years haven’t been great for us, with league positions and missing out on the Champions League. But with the new manager coming in and the run we’ve been on in the second half of the season, it gives us a lot to look forward to for next season.

How would a “team of Carraghers” cope in the Premier League?

Carragher: A lot of 0-0s!

Paul Scholes came back from retirement after half a year — can you see something similar for yourself?

Carragher: No, I don’t think so. The manager has known for a while that I’m retiring, so I’m sure he’s got plans in place and different players that he wants to bring in, ideas of what he wants to do.

How did if feel physically when you were [having cramps] in Istanbul?

Carragher: Not good! It was just one of those things. You’ve got to play on. Plenty of players have been in that situation and done the same — mine’s highlighted because of the magnitude of the game and everyone was watching. I’m not the only player who has had cramp in football and carried on — there are plenty of other players who have done that. It was just part of the game, that’s what made it so special. There were lots of different incidents and things going on. I’m just glad to have been part of it.

Who were the players who were inspirational for you during your time here?

Carragher: When I first got into the side, I’d say John Barnes. He was the captain and a great player — one of the top players to ever play for the club. As I came into the side a bit more, I’d say Steven Gerrard, even though he’s younger than me. He’s an inspiration, not just for younger players. It doesn’t matter if it’s a younger player or an older player. You watch the way he plays, what he’s done for us and how he’s won us a few trophies — he’s added to my medal collection! I’d say those two.

Defensively, who have you learned the most from?

Carragher: The best center-back I played alongside was Sami Hyypia. I thought he was a great player for the club. We’ve had lots of players, but it could also be a coach. We had Phil Thompson here, [Rafa] Benitez was brilliant at setting up defenses. He brought my game on a lot in terms of playing at center-back because that was his expertise — making a team solid. It’s difficult to pick one person. I’ve had a lot of help from a lot of different people.

How did you feel when your position was under pressure?

Carragher: It gives you motivation. Football is a fight, really, whether it’s opposition, or sometimes it can be within your own dressing room in terms of getting a place. We’re all mates. We’re a big squad, but when the team goes up, there’s only one name that you look for. It’s added motivation, but if it hadn’t have happened, I’d have still motivated myself some other way. I’ve always been that type of lad. It pushed me on and made me a better player.

Have your recent performances made you think you could carry on?

Carragher: It’s made me go the other way, to be honest. It’s made me think it is the right time. It’s nice that I’m in the side and people are saying I’m doing well and why not stay for another year? It’s better than them saying you should have gone a year ago. I prefer it to be like that and get out while it’s going well because it can easily change.

How has the game changed during your era?

Carragher: Anyone who has been in football the amount of time I have, you look from day one until now. There are big changes. The sports science side of it has come on more than anything — doctors, how to train and all this type of stuff. I think that has been the big advance in the game during that time. Four or five years ago, the Premier League was its best. I think it’s dipped a little bit at the moment. A few years ago, ourselves, Chelsea and Manchester United were always close to winning the Champions League for two or three years. I think that was the height of the Premier League — hopefully that’s something that I’ll be able to talk about next season and we get the Premier League back up there. It would be nice to see some more top players coming in and give the league a little bit of a boost.

Rio Ferdinand has announced his England retirement today. Do you look back and think it would be nice to have had a few more games at that level?

Carragher: I wish he’d have retired years ago — I might have got a few more games! He’s been a great player, he’s retired from England. He’s a similar age to me, so it was always going to come up at one time or another. Him and John Terry were the cornerstones of the England side for 10 years, and it was just timing really — it was difficult for me to get in. They’re two great player,s and I wish them well.

Is there anything you won’t miss about being a professional player?

Carragher: The feeling when you get beat, but I suppose I’ll have that as a fan — watching and I won’t be able to do anything about it if results aren’t going well for Liverpool. So that feeling after a defeat. You’re pretty low for a few days.

Photo via Liverpoolfc.com

Brendan Rodgers

The Reds will end 2012-13 in seventh in the Barclays Premier League — one position higher than last term, although they head into this weekend’s final-day clash with Queens Park Rangers 11 points off fourth place in the table and qualification for the UEFA Champions League.

However, with a year of experience at Anfield under his belt, coupled with further additions to the squad in the summer, Rodgers is confident his side will continue to progress next season.

“This year has provided a great learning curve for me, and I look back and see that it was learning that I needed,” he told the Liverpool Echo. ”I knew the expectancy of the club, but going into next season, I am a much better prepared manager for that.

“We want to make significant improvements next year in the points total, because the reality is, we are 30 points behind the leaders and 11 points behind the top four.

“But I’ve seen enough, and if we improve our mentality in the summer — by signing players who have that consistent winning mentality — we can then improve again, like we have done in the second half of the season.

“That’s the job of the recruitment team and the club, to identify those types of players. They might not always be the best players, but what we need in the second year of this project is to find a great level of consistency. There is a process of getting into the top four and becoming champions, and that is consistency.

“This club didn’t win two league games in a row for over a year. That came earlier on in the season, and when you step back and look at that, it is nowhere near good enough if you are going to succeed.

“You build a mentality in your group, and you get the types of players who can be on it every single game. I’ve loved every minute of being here and the small steps of where we want to go. But now I want to make bigger steps.”

Daniel Sturridge

The 23-year-old was in devastating form at Craven Cottage on Sunday, firing a hat trick past Mark Schwarzer in Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Fulham.

Sturridge arrived on Merseyside in January 2013 from Stamford Bridge, where his game time had been limited by competition in the form of the formidable Dider Drogba.

However, the Reds’ No. 15 says he has learned plenty about the importance of mental strength from time spent in the company of the Ivorian hitman.

“Being strong mentally is the one thing that can separate you from anyone else,” Sturridge said. “When I worked with Drogba at Chelsea, the one strength he had above everybody was his mental strength. I learned a lot from working with him about what it takes to be a top player. Hopefully I’ll become one.

“It’s a fantastic feeling to score a hat trick. Hopefully I’ll have a long career ahead of me with Liverpool.

“I am a lot more peaceful, and I’m playing with a clear mind. Before there were a lot of things going on, and mentally it was hard for me. It’s difficult when you do well and then don’t play the next game, as you feel ‘what more can I do?’”

The win at Fulham extends the Reds’ strong finish to the current campaign to one defeat in the last 11 games.

Sturridge is optimistic about the future. However, he is keen to remain cautious about raising expectation levels too high ahead of next season.

“We’re playing well, and we’ve got a lot of good players here,” Sturridge said. ”But I don’t want to put any pressure on ourselves by talking about the top four for next season. We just need to focus on the one league game we’ve got left and then come back and work hard in preseason.

“We need to leave the manager to do his job in terms of whether he’s going to make any signings, and as players, we all just need to come into work every day with the right attitude and implement what the manager wants us to do.”

Photo via Facebook/Liverpool FC

Daniel Sturridge

The Liverpool striker cancelled out Dimitar Berbatov‘s opener in eye-catching circumstances before sealing the win in the second half.

The trio of strikes from Sturridge increased Liverpool’s away goals tally to 38 for the campaign, beating the Reds’ highest Premier League record of 36. The result also caps off Jamie Carragher‘s 50th game as Liverpool captain in stunning fashion.

In a commanding opening quarter of an hour from the Reds, Philippe Coutinho was the architect of two inviting opportunities.

A passing exchange between him and Jonjo Shelvey allowed the latter to drill a goal-bound shot that was blocked, before a solo effort from the Brazilian nearly broke the deadlock.

When it appeared certain that Eyong Enoh would steal possession from the 20-year-old, Coutinho spun away from the midfielder before charging forward and rifling a fierce 25-yard drive that unfortunately flew straight at Mark Schwarzer.

Relentless pressure from the visitors continued and an incisive pass presented Sturridge with a sight of goal.

The Liverpool stalwart slid a perfectly weighted pass through to the striker who rushed his effort and dragged it past the far post.

Despite the Reds dominating proceedings, it was the Cottagers who opened the scoring shortly after the half-hour mark.

An unmarked Berbatov met Sascha Riether‘s cross with a composed header that flew into the corner.

Liverpool immediately fought back and didn’t allow Fulham’s lead to last long as they leveled the scoring just three minutes later.

A long, hopeful ball from deep by Andre Wisdom found Sturridge in the opposition’s box. The lively forward skipped past Aaron Hughes with ease before firing an unstoppable strike past the helpless Schwarzer and into the roof of the net.

Brendan Rodgers‘ side continued after the restart in exemplary fashion and Jose Enrique — on as a substitute for Wisdom — curled in a near pinpoint cross that was just too high for Sturridge. A minute into the second period, the full-back whipped the ball in towards the striker who had to stretch to meet it as his header soared over the crossbar.

As soon as the hour mark arrived, a period of intense activity ensued.

The first incident brought numerous claims that Lucas had allegedly handled the ball in the area. Calls for a penalty were ignored before the Reds raced up the other end of the field to break into the lead.

The energetic Coutinho hit a powerful shot that fortuitously deflected into the path of Sturridge, allowing the frontman to casually side-foot the ball past Schwarzer for Liverpool’s second.

Following this, Schwarzer was equal to two identical shots from similar positions by Sturridge, preventing the forward’s and Liverpool’s tally rising to four.

With less than 20 minutes remaining, Shelvey enjoyed even less fortune in front of goal when meeting Stewart Downing‘s cross. After controlling the ball at the back post, the midfielder lost his footing just as he prepared to strike before his eventual attempt was blocked.

Minutes later, Pepe Reina thwarted Fulham’s threatening efforts to even the scoring from a corner in heroic fashion.

Hughes met the set-piece with a glancing header towards the far post that Reina valiantly dived across to palm away.

The pulsating tempo of the encounter did not relent and substitute Fabio Borini came agonizingly close to scoring with his first contribution immediately after coming on.

The Italian raced inside before slamming a shot that crashed off the post before he was foiled by Schwarzer just a minute after.

An extravagant flick from Sturridge sent his fellow striker through before Borini’s side-footed effort was beaten away by the Fulham custodian.

With five minutes remaining, the combination of Sturridge and Coutinho brought devastating results — reminiscent of the way it has done in previous games.

An accurate pass with the outside of the Brazilian’s foot found Sturridge who calmly lifted the ball over the onrushing Schwarzer and into the gaping net to hand Liverpool a deserved three points.

Liverpoolfc.com journalists’ man of the match: Daniel Sturridge

Daniel Sturridge

The 23-year-old admits he is satisfied with his tally of eight goals from 14 appearances for the Reds so far following his January transfer from Chelsea.

Nonetheless, Sturridge insists his focus is firmly on helping the team impress as a whole, rather than any personal success.

“It’s great to score goals but the main factor when I joined the club was just to help Liverpool move forward,” he said. ”I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself to score goals because that’s the kind of person I am. I always put pressure on myself but I’ve stopped doing that so much now.

“I’ve just tried to focus on helping the team win games and to work as hard as I possibly can on the football field because if I do that then all the natural things that I do on the pitch will come out.

“So my mentality now is to ensure I am in tip-top shape and at my optimum best to be able to help the team. If I score goals along the way then fantastic, if I get assists fantastic, but the main thing is for the team to get positives results and for us to come out of the season on a high.”

The club’s medical team and associated specialists have decided to undertake a series of elective injections to enhance the stability of the defender’s back.

Agger has enjoyed his best season since joining the Reds in terms of appearances having made 39 in all competitions — the highest he has totaled in any campaign since joining the club in January 2006.

Undergoing the treatment means he will miss the remaining games against Fulham and Queens Park Rangers.

Liverpool believe this pro-active action and planned rehabilitation program will have long-term benefits for the 28-year-old’s career for both club and country.

Jamie Carragher

The center-back says the manner in which the Reds have performed since the turn of the year suggests they’re in a good position to continue to progress.

“There are some very positive signs,” said Carragher, who will retire from playing at the end of the season. ”We had a tough start in terms of the fixtures, and in an ideal world, you would play those teams later on in the season when you are up and running. But in the second half of the season, there has been a bit more experience in the side.

“The manager made a couple of good signings in January, which gave us a boost. He has been able to implement his ideas a lot more, and players have got used to the way the manager wants the team to play. You can see that in the results.

“Since around January, we’ve been on a decent run. Since the United game, we’ve only lost to West Brom and Southampton. We want to keep that going, and the club needs to build on it and take that into next season.”

Carragher has just two games remaining as a Liverpool player — a trip to Fulham on Sunday before a final-day meeting with Queens Park Rangers at Anfield. Nevertheless, the 35-year-old typically has a target in mind.

The Reds have kept 15 clean sheets so far this season, with only Manchester City having managed more (16).

“Pepe [Reina] and myself have always enjoyed keeping clean sheets and breaking records,” Carragher said. ”He’s told me that Man City are currently one ahead of us. We would like to get two more clean sheets in the last couple of games, just like the strikers would like to get a couple of goals. But really, the most important thing is coming together as a team and winning. I’d rather not keep a clean sheet and win 2-1.

“I’ve got two games left for Liverpool, and I always give 100 percent for Liverpool. I will thoroughly enjoy these last two games.”

The game will be played at the Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday, May 21 with kick-off set for 8:15 p.m. ocal time.

Tickets go on sale on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 via computicket.com and prices range from R150 ($17) – R350 ($39).

“It will be fantastic for the club to return to South Africa after almost 20 years,” Billy Hogan, chief commercial officer at Liverpool FC, said. “We know we have a large fan base in South Africa which is rapidly growing. In the last eight months the number of South African fans visiting the club’s website has doubled.

“This visit is part of our off-season activity and shows our commitment to bringing the club closer to our fans all over the globe, no matter how far away from Anfield they may live.”

Liverpool visited South Africa in May 1994 when it faced Aston Villa, Cape Town Spurs and Kaizer Chiefs in the United Bank International Soccer Festival. Whilst on this visit, the traveling Liverpool party also met with South Africa president Nelson Mandela.

The club has a huge following in the country and recently became the first team in world football to launch an official Twitter account for South African supporters, which can be followed @SouthAfricaLFC.

Fans should follow @SouthAfricaLFC for more details as they emerge.

Photo via LiverpoolFC.com

In what was Jamie Carragher‘s 30th and final derby, Reds captain Steven Gerrard and Blues midfielder Marouane Fellaini caused the opposing sides the most concern with the greatest opportunities.

The result sees the five-point gap between the two sides remain unchanged, with Everton sitting just one place above the Reds in the league.

Amidst the typically vociferous derby atmosphere, the Reds looked to stamp authority with the first attempt when Daniel Sturridge dragged a 20-yard half-volley wide.

Despite an encouraging opening for Liverpool, it was the Blues who came the closest early on through Fellaini in the 17th minute.

The Belgian wrestled with Carragher to meet a free kick from Leighton Baines with a prodded volley that trickled narrowly past the far post.

The visitors were nearly made to rue that missed opportunity when Gerrard was only just prevented by an expert intervention from Phil Jagielka shortly after the half-hour mark.

After controlling Stewart Downing‘s cross, Jordan Henderson teed up the captain for a goal-bound shot that the Everton defender threw himself in the way of.

That proved not to be the only vital contribution that Jagielka would make as he was called into action yet again with just five minutes remaining in the first half.

Sturridge failed to fully control an incisive pass but the tumbling forward still managed to steer the ball into the path of the onrushing Philippe Coutinho. Just as the Brazilian was about to freely burst into the 18-yard box, the Blues center-back made a last-ditch sliding tackle to clear the danger.

Three minutes after the restart, the combination of derby debutants Coutinho and Sturridge came agonizingly close to bringing a devastating effect.

A defence-splitting pass from the former handed Sturridge a sight of goal. The frontman remained composed as he tried to round Tim Howard but the Blues custodian anticipated his movement and blocked his attempt.

As the hour mark approached, Everton found the net but was judged to have done so in illegal circumstances.

The towering Sylvain Distin headed a corner past Pepe Reina but the Blues’ joy was short-lived as they were pulled back for obstruction in the area.

The tense nature of the game did not relent as the influential Coutinho looked to break the deadlock minutes later.

Glen Johnson‘s cross from the right flank drew no contact in the area as it fizzed through to Coutinho on the far edge of the area. The 20-year-old swiftly drilled a shot that unfortunately soared straight into the arms of Howard.

With just over a quarter of an hour remaining, the American goalkeeper was powerless to prevent Gerrard but was saved by Distin.

As Liverpool surged forward in numbers, Sturridge played a perfectly weighted pass into the path of the skipper. His momentum took him past Howard but his side-footed effort from an acute angle was dramatically cleared away by the French defender.

Both sides threatened to take all three points towards the end. Daniel Agger failed to make the desired contact when meeting a Gerrard free-kick as he glanced a header wide before Victor Anichebe had the woodwork shaking as the game neared a close.

The Nigerian hit a deflected shot from distance that flew towards the top corner, forcing Reina to push the ball onto the post.

Despite both side’s efforts to steal a winner, both rearguards remained sturdy under pressure as Liverpool and Everton were awarded a deserved point each.

Liverpoolfc.com journalists’ man of the match: Steven Gerrard.

Photo via LiverpoolFC.com

Brendan Rodgers

The manager was quizzed about his first 11 months in charge at Anfield, his focus on developing young players and Liverpool’s transfer aims for the summer.

Rodgers also spoke about his early career and how he learned from Jose Mourinho during his time at Chelsea. We’ve transcribed some of the best bits of the interview for you to scan through below.

Rodgers on his Anfield career so far:

It’s been such a great challenge. It’s a privilege to manage such a great club. In football, you’re going to have good days and bad days and I’ve been really pleased by some of the progress that we have made. The supporters have been absolutely incredible. Football really is a way of life for them and as a manager you understand that and you fight for them. I really hope that the future can be bright for us because I see a lot of good things going on at the club.

On summer transfers:

It will be our job in the summer to add more quality to the squad. The owners have been absolutely great from day one, ever since I met them. They are trying to put something in place that is going to be sustainable. We know that at the top end [of the table] you have to spend money, but we won’t have the resources that other clubs have. So we’re trying to build our way there. A lot of our work is going to be in terms of our coaching and making the players better. We know that we need to have some experience in there as well and that hopefully can help project us forward again.

On finishing in the top four next season:

It’s a difficult ask. Look at Tottenham — they finished in the top four last year and spent a lot of money to try and retain their place in there. Chelsea, who were the [UEFA] Champions League winners, finished sixth last season. So for us it’s a huge ask. But it’s our goal and it’s where we want to go. We want to keep growing and we want to look to win trophies. Next year the important factor is getting consistency in the league in order to move up the table and challenge for the top-four positions. If we can do that, then that will keep us pushing on.

On developing young players:

This season, Raheem Sterling played against Manchester City when he was just 17 years of age. He could even play for our youth team next year — that’s how young he is. But to go from being a youth player to making his full international debut for England is a great credit to him. He knows he’s got a lot of hard work ahead. Andre Wisdom has played a number of games this season; Jonjo Shelvey is still only very young. Boys like Suso have played as well. Youth will be a very important part in our growth as a club and I’ll always look for young players. But you have to have the balance and that’s important.

On learning from Jose Mourinho:

When I worked with Jose I had a great experience. He put a lot of trust in me as a young coach to work with top players. He encouraged me and gave me that belief that I could go on and become a manager. But until you actually step out there [into management], it’s a different ball game altogether. I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with some fantastic people in football. Alan Pardew, whose side we faced at the weekend, is a friend of mine. He was manager at Reading when I was there and I learned things from Alan. One of my strengths is I learn and I like to learn from all sorts of people in all walks of life. I try to implement my own ways of making teams successful.

The Northern Irishman added striker Daniel Sturridge and Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho to his squad during the previous window, with both players making immediate impacts at Anfield.

Now the boss wants to achieve similar successes to boost his ranks further before the 2013-14 campaign gets under way.

“The club respect where we need to strengthen and where we need to improve,” Rodgers told Sky Sports. ”We have seen from the last window in January, we got our business done early and brought in two outstanding players in Sturridge and Coutinho.

“Hopefully we will have a similar impact in the summer. If we can do that, that will make me really happy with the group going forward.

“I just think we need a bit more depth and a bit more quality.

“The players this year have done very well. I have asked everything of them and, in the main, they have done very well.

“The majority of the time, there have not been too many performances where I have been really disappointed.”

Photo via LiverpoolFC.com

Lucas Leiva

The Reds currently sit five points and one position behind the sixth-place Blues heading into this weekend’s showdown at Anfield.

Lucas knows a win for the Reds will be vital if they are to finish ahead of their neighbors and secure a top-six finish.

“We still have a chance of catching Everton, and that’s our target,” said the Brazilian. ”We know we have to win if we want to finish a position higher than we are now.

“Merseyside derbies are always special to play in. The atmosphere will be amazing at Anfield, and it’s the kind of game you really look forward to playing in.

“We will go into the derby with a lot of confidence. Hopefully we can get another win and try to finish the season on a bit of a high.

“It’s been a difficult season for us, but we have to keep going. We still have three games remaining and the chance to get nine more points. The manner of our victory against Newcastle showed the character of everyone.”

Liverpool will go into the game high on confidence following Saturday’s 6-0 demolition of Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.

The Reds were in irresistible form — but Lucas says there were facets of their performance that can be improved upon.

“We showed on Saturday that we are a team,” he said. “We approached the game in the right way and played with a lot of confidence and intensity.

“After going 4-0 up in the second half, we just controlled the game. I remember when we beat Newcastle 5-1 at St. James’ Park a few years ago, and this was even better.

“But even though we won 6-0, there are still areas that we can improve upon. We need to keep working and keep believing.”

Daniel Sturridge and Jordan Henderson both struck two goals each to add to Daniel Agger‘s opener against Newcastle.

There was also a first Barclays Premier League goal for the fit-again Fabio Borini, who returned to action as a substitute following a shoulder injury.

Lucas says such statistics show Liverpool will be able to maintain the attacking threat that has seen the Reds plunder 67 goals in the league so far this season in the absence of the suspended Luis Suarez.

“Luis had a fantastic season and had probably been the best player in the Premier League over the past nine months,” he said. ”With him out, of course we lose a lot of quality. We miss him a lot, but that performance showed that we have other good players who can score goals and win us matches.

“Daniel has been playing very well. In the second half against Chelsea and again against Newcastle, he showed that he can do that job.

“It was important that goals came from other players as well. We can’t just look to Daniel. The responsibility is on everyone.

“Jordan has worked so hard, and he deserved his goals. With Newcastle being the big rivals of Sunderland, he was really happy.

“Coutinho was playing in a different position as a No. 10. We managed to get him on the ball a lot, and he showed what he can do. He loves to give that final pass.

“I speak a lot with Fabio, because I know what it’s like to be out injured for a long time. It’s been a tough first season for him here, and he’s been unlucky. But now he’s back and will be important for us. To score was a bonus, and we were really happy for him.

“As a team, we were very good from the keeper right through to the center-forward. We kept a clean sheet and scored six goals. Now we have to keep it going.”

Photo via LiverpoolFC.com

The results were revealed at the annual PFA awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Sunday, where Bale was crowned the country’s best for the current season.

The Tottenham Hotspur man scooped the award for the second time in his career and actually achieved double glory after also finishing first in the race for PFA Young Player of the Year.

Enjoying his most productive campaign to date, 23-year-old Bale has notched 19 league goals for Spurs — behind only Suarez and van Persie in the Barclays Premier League.

Suarez has struck 30 goals for the Reds during 2012-13, including 23 in the Premier League, and finished second in the vote by professional players across the country.

Van Persie has found the net 25 times in the league this season to help guide Manchester United to the title and establish himself at the summit of the scoring charts.

The Dutchman lifted the prize 12 months ago, while Welsh winger Bale first claimed the honor in 2010-11. Steven Gerrard was the last Liverpool player to top the vote, in 2005-06.

Liverpool No. 7 Suarez was also recognized by his peers by being named in the PFA Team of the Year.

Also voted to the PFA Team of the Year were David De Gea, Pablo Zabaleta, Rio Ferdinand, Jan Vertonghen, Leighton Baines, Eden Hazard, Juan Mata, Michael Carrick, Bale and van Persie.

Jordan Henderson and Daniel Sturridge both netted twice after Daniel Agger nodded the Reds in front, and Fabio Borini marked his return to the side with an instinctive finish.

The last time Liverpool won at St James’ was December 2008, when it dismantled the Magpies in a 5-1 win.

And the vibrant, slick manner with which the Reds went about pressuring Alan Pardew‘s side on Saturday echoed the performance of five years ago.

Purposeful and creative from the start, Philippe Coutinho was at the heart of each forward foray.

After a minute the Brazilian schemer spun near the center circle and slid the ball into acres of space for Glen Johnson, who squared for Sturridge; however, Steven Taylor was alert.

Newcastle were penned deep inside their own area by constant pressure and when they tried to evacuate the box, Coutinho saw Agger had remained in position and the Dane leapt high to nod his cross beyond Rob Elliot.

Brendan Rodgers‘ side passed and moved and pulled Newcastle about the park before they pounced to double their lead.

Coutinho sped towards goal, the ball glued to his right boot, and calmly rolled the ball into Sturridge, who found Henderson and he tapped home before racing away in delight.

Despite the dominance the Reds would go on to enjoy, there was a solitary heart in mouth moment for the travelling Kop when after 38 minutes, James Perch bulleted a free header over Pepe Reina‘s crossbar from yards out.

Newcastle swarmed the Liverpool penalty area after the restart and Johnson was forced to launch himself at a loose ball as Yohan Cabaye stood poised to convert from close range.

At the other end, though, more magic from Coutinho gave Liverpool a third. On the edge of the box the 20-year-old lifted the ball between two black and white shirts to where Sturridge collected and smashed high into Elliot’s net.

On the hour mark it was four. Gerrard clipped a perfectly weighted pass over the top for Henderson, who unselfishly rolled the ball across the face of the goal and Sturridge tapped home his eighth Liverpool goal.

Borini was introduced in the 72nd minute and the Italian prodded home Liverpool’s fifth after fine work from Stewart Downing two minutes later.

Henderson then capped the ruthless performance by curling home a free-kick from the left flank.

Liverpoolfc.com journalists’ man of the match: Philippe Coutinho.

The 32-year-old, who has completed every minute of the Reds’ Barclays Premier League campaign to date, has been playing through the problem according to first-team coach Mike Marsh.

“It’s looking more and more likely that he might require surgery,” Marsh told Liverpoolfc.com on Wednesday. ”He has been playing with a shoulder injury for quite a while now. We’ll try to find the right time for him to get it fixed properly.

“It’s not ideal timing, it’s going to take quite a while for him to heal. It’s a funny injury — it’s pretty similar to Joe Allen.

“If it needs repairing, it needs repairing and when he’s back fit, he’s back fit. There’s not much we can do about it.”

There was good news elsewhere, however, as the former Reds midfielder declared a clean bill of health for the rest of the squad currently in action.

“It’s pretty much the same, the long-standing injuries that we’ve got are on the road back to recovery.

“One or two are a little bit closer — Fabio Borini has joined in, Raheem Sterling is now back out on the pitch and Martin Kelly is also outside. We’re back to almost a full compliment.”

Italian international Borini revealed earlier this week that he had returned to full training at Melwood — and Marsh explained that the forward could feature as early as this weekend.

“It has gone really well. He’s been involved in training for the last week or so, non-contact,” Marsh added. ”He had the all-clear from the surgeon and joined in during the last couple of days and it’s looking really good. He might be included on the bench at the weekend, it might be the week after. He’s coming to the time when he can be included off the bench pretty soon.

“It’s been difficult for him — he’s picked up a couple of serious injuries which kept him out for the majority of the season. We’ve hardly been able to use him so it will be like an extra player. We’re looking forward to that.”

The Reds will face reigning Greek champions and European giants Olympiacos in their only preseason match to be played at Anfield, on Saturday, August 3, with kick off scheduled for 2 p.m.

The contest is being staged to celebrate Gerrard’s glittering Liverpool career and also recognize his commitment and loyalty to his hometown club.

Money raised from events celebrating Steven’s testimonial year will be for the benefit of the Steven Gerrard Foundation (SGF), a registered charity — stevengerrardfoundation.org. The foundation, set up in February 2011, is committed to making a lasting difference to disadvantaged children and young people in need.

Liverpool’s opponents, Olympiacos, have confirmed that they too will be donating their appearance fee to local charities in Greece.

The fixture has great historical significance for both Steven and Liverpool. In 2004, in front of a packed home crowd, a stunning late goal from Steven saw Liverpool come from behind to beat a powerful Olympiacos side 3-1 and go into the next stage of the UEFA Champions League. Steven’s goal proved to be even more critical as that same season, Liverpool went on to be crowned winners of Champions League, beating AC Milan in an unforgettable final.

As Steven has spent the majority of his life in Liverpool, he has seen many of the issues faced by local children and therefore much of the money generated will go to a range of children’s charitable organisations and projects in and around Merseyside.

“I am delighted to be honoured by Liverpool with a testimonial match and particularly thrilled that Olympiacos have accepted my invitation to play the fixture,” Gerrard said. “Last time we met proved to be such a memorable game both for me personally and Liverpool Football Club.

“I am also especially grateful that Olympiacos have truly embraced the aim of this match and chosen to donate their fee to charity. I am looking forward to what I know will be a fantastic game and a wonderful occasion.”

“It is an honour and a great pleasure to participate in Steven’s testimonial match against Liverpool, which shows yet again how the world of football can work together to build a bright future for the children and the young people of our society,” Evangelos Marinakis, president of Olympiacos, said.

“As a socially conscious club, Olympiacos always seek to contribute with actions aimed to alleviate people in need, as much as humanly possible.

“Reaching those affected by the economic crisis in our home country, we will donate our share to humanitarian, non-profit driven foundations and community development programs. We look forward to a most enjoyable and rewarding match, where everyone is a winner.”

Sportcel Marketing, a leading sports and event marketing agency, has been appointed by Gerrard as the exclusive agency to organize the testimonial match on behalf of the Foundation.

In addition, the agency has been charged with arranging one other testimonial event, with the objective of raising as much money as possible for SGF over the course of the year.

“Having worked with Steven on his inaugural fund raising event for the Steven Gerrard Foundation, we have seen first hand the extraordinary impact that Steven has on those around him and his ability to galvanize support for such an important cause,” Rob Owen, director at Sportcel, said.

“We are of course delighted to be chosen to help him once again, in such an important year for him and the Foundation.”

Further information and ticket details will be announced on Liverpoolfc.com in due course.