Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is relishing the prospect of being able to call upon striker Fabio Borini, as the Italian nears a return to first-team action.

The 21-year-old has been out for three months after undergoing surgery on a fractured foot, meaning the Reds have been forced to cope with Luis Suarez as their only senior striking option.

And, despite the Uruguayan seemingly thriving under the pressure – having notched 19 goals already this season – Rodgers is keen to get Borini back.

“Other clubs have the depth to bring people off the bench and make an impact,” Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo.

“We have been unable to do that in the opening months of the season, which gives incredible credit to the players who have kept us going until now.
 
“We have Daniel here now and will have Fabio fit soon and that will give us that spark. Hopefully over the years Fabio can develop into a top performer which I think he can be.”

Rodgers also took time out to praise young defender Andre Wisdom, after the 19-year-old signed a new long-term deal at Anfield.

“I’m delighted for Andre,” Rodgers told the club’s official website. “He’s a young player that’s really impressed me with his attitude and football qualities over the course of these first six months and he’s grabbed his opportunity.

“I’m delighted he’s committed and sees his future here at the football club and the hard work starts again for him.

“It’s a really exciting time for Andre and all the young players at the club. I’m as delighted as I was when Luis Suarez signed a new deal in the summer because every player that commits is a symbol of our togetherness and our unity here – and he obviously wants to be a part of that.

“For Andre the message is to continue to work hard and learn from the great coaches and the people that are around you and make sure that your next contract is signed here at Liverpool.”