BR: Gerrard beat pain to down Villa
Brendan Rodgers has revealed how Steven Gerrard played through the pain barrier to help Liverpool come from behind to beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Easter Sunday.
The skipper converted a penalty to add to Jordan Henderson's leveller - and then executed a brilliant diving header to deny Christian Benteke his second goal of the day.
Rodgers explained afterwards how the 32-year-old had struggled to put his boots on prior to the game because of pain in his foot.
"He had to get an injection in his heel," revealed the boss.
"He had a wee issue with his heel for a couple of days. He had a bit of pain in it and was struggling to get his boot on.
"For him it was a case of doing whatever it takes to play. It was nothing major but he had pain in his foot - and many other players might not have played or even trained."
Another player who set physical issues aside to put in a memorable display was Luis Suarez.
Rodgers explained: "He's been away with Uruguay and came back late on Thursday.
"He was in training on Friday and I was thinking how tired he was - his face, his body. He just looked totally shattered from all the travel and exertions from the game.
"But you look at him today - his energy and willingness to work for the team, and then just his sheer quality. His imagination in the game is incredible.
"He really frightens defenders, and that led to a penalty [today]."
Journalists probed the boss on whether the club would have to listen to any sizeable offers for the 29-goal striker.
"We don't have to sell him for the money," he replied. "He's very happy. We're trying to build a group here and add to it. We want to keep striving forward."
Liverpool came from behind to win at Villa Park and Rodgers was delighted with his players.
"I thought the players were brilliant," he said. "Second half I thought the players were outstanding - the quality and mentality of their game.
"We were very good offensively and we kept control after going 2-1 up. It's a great win for us.
"Tactically the players were very, very good and the character and mentality to come back was excellent.
"There were some outstanding individual performances. Steven was excellent. Coutinho was magical with the ball at times - his vision and awareness.
"And Jordan Henderson when he made his run for the goal; a great run and then he kept his composure with the finish."
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