Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that striker Luis Suarez has "matured" as a player following his lengthy suspension for biting Branislav Ivanovic last season.

The 10-game ban saw Suarez miss the end of last season and the start of this, but Rodgers has credited the Uruguayan's commitment since returning from his ban.

"It was extremely difficult for him to cope [with the 10 game ban]," BBC Sport quotes Rodgers as saying.

"He's matured and he's accepted the roles and responsibilities I've given to him as one of the senior players. He's one of the pillars of the group for me.

"We're a young side and he's taken on that mantle while really adding the X-factor he has to his game. He's in a good place and his family is in a good place and long may it continue."

Rodgers earlier did not confirm or deny whether the player was in talks over a new contract.