Rodgers buoyed by 'sharp' Fabio return
Brendan Rodgers has revealed his pleasure at the imminent return to the Liverpool squad of Fabio Borini.
The Italian forward has endured a second spell on the sidelines this season after dislocating a shoulder during the Reds' 5-0 thrashing of Swansea in February.
But the 22-year-old rejoined his teammates for full training earlier this week and is already in contention for playing time.
"Fabio should also be involved in the squad so we have options. He's recovered really well and is looking very sharp," Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo.
"It's been a difficult first season for Fabio. With the injuries he's had it's not been ideal but it's been a great learning season for him.
"If he can help us now over the coming weeks it will give him a platform to build on for next season."
The boss also reserved words of praise for another former Chelsea man, Daniel Sturridge - who terrorised his old team as a substitute last weekend.
He added: "Daniel was excellent against Chelsea. When he came on he gave us a real threat with his pace and power. He scored with a great finish and could have had two or three more.
"Hopefully he can continue with that run of form right through to the end of the season and beyond.
"While Luis is out, we have to keep moving forward as a team. In adverse moments you find out about people's character. I know there's no shortage of character here and they need to demonstrate that."
Switching focus to Saturday's battle with Newcastle, the boss believes his team can carry momentum from their Chelsea comeback into the fixture at St James' Park.
"It didn't get talked about much this week but we were outstanding in the second half against Chelsea," continued the 40-year-old.
"We were more like ourselves - on the front foot playing with a real intensity, pressing the game well and creating chances.
"I'm sure Alan will be bitterly disappointed with the season Newcastle have had. After finishing fifth last season, this has been a difficult year for them.
"But with Yohan Cabaye, Papiss Cisse and Moussa Sissoko they have good players.
"It's always a tough game at Newcastle. The atmosphere is always passionate and they get the ball forward early.
"It's about showing our ability to control the game, to play with intensity and aggression and then our quality will come through."