Rodgers warns young duo they have a long way to go at Liverpool

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has warned youngster Raheem Sterlingand Jordon Ibe that they still have a long way to go before making it at the club.

The duo broke into the Reds squad last season with some exciting displays, but have struggled to get onto the pitch so far this campaign.

However, Rodgers insists that if Sterling and Ibe continue to work hard and show a good attitude, then chances will come their way soon.

“Jordon is only 17 years of age and even Raheem is only 18. We can’t forget that,” Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo.

“We don’t want to rush these young players’ development, even though we want young players to come through and we want to put them in the first team. We’ve done that over the course of the last year or so.

“But it is also important to understand that it comes at different stages for some players.

“Look at Raheem’s progress and what he’s done in the last year or so. He has propelled himself from a youth team and reserve player to an England player.

“But they still have a long way to go in their professional careers and at this stage we’re just looking to manage that and make sure we nurture that for the future.

“They understand that if you are focused and playing well, then you will play, but in the modern game it can be difficult for young players to break through.

“Over the last year or so they have seen that they are going to get an opportunity and if they can devote their life, be professional and take the opportunities when they come then they are going to have an excellent chance.

“You just have to give them the time and understanding. There are not going to be too many 17 or 18-year-olds ready for the first team, but we want them to be at 20 or 21.”

Sterling has made just one start this season but has enjoyed plenty of cameo roles off the bench, completing 64 per cent of his take ons and 82 per cent of his tackles.