Liverpool striker Luis Suarez believes that it is "important" for the club's stars to take time out to visit their young supporters struggling with illness.

The Uruguayan and his teammates took a trip to Merseyside's Alder Hey hospital to give Christmas gifts to the children and meet their families, and the 25-year-old has insisted that it puts things into perspective.

"It's so nice to come here and see the children," Suarez told the club's official website. "It's very important. When you have children yourself, it makes you realise how lucky you are."

Goalkeeper Pepe Reina added: "As always, it's emotional to come here but we're always happy to do anything we can for the kids. We enjoy seeing them smile.

"As a human being you have a responsibility, not just as a footballer. It's about trying to be a good guy and helping others to be a little bit more happy."

The Reds are preparing to take on Aston Villa in the Premier League this weekend.