You'll have plenty to celebrate when you subscribe to the Liverpool FC newsletter Sign me up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Raheem Sterling insists he is happy to shoulder the goalscoring burden at Liverpool FC.

And the Reds star believes he is adapting well to his new striking role.

Sterling’s goal ensures Liverpool will go into the second leg of their Capital One Cup semi final with Chelsea next week with a fighting chance, after a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Tuesday night.

The 20-year-old has flourished in recent weeks after being deployed as a centre forward in Brendan Rodgers’ 3-4-2-1 system, and says he is enjoying the responsibility which comes with such a role.

“It’s a role that I am learning and adapting to,” Sterling said. “But if you want to be a good player, it is something you’ve got to do, you’ve got to adapt and play in different positions.

“I want to learn as much as I can, and I’m enjoying it at the moment. It’s good for me.”

Sterling’s goal against Chelsea, a fine individual effort, was his seventh of the season in all competitions. The England forward managed 10 for Liverpool last season, and says he has set himself a personal target for this campaign – though he would not reveal the exact figure.

“I have personal goals, but I don’t want to share them in case I don’t reach them!” he said. “I always set myself goals and standards that I want to meet, and this season is no different.

“When I get in front of goal, sometimes I can get a bit excited thinking I’ve done it all. But I just have to keep focused, and work hard to try and take my game to the next level by getting more goals and assists.”

He added: “I want to get on the ball as much as possible. As long as it’s not too high in the air, I will fight for it and try to make something happen.

“It’s good to play with players like Adam (Lallana) and Philippe (Coutinho) who like to get on the ball and try to create for you. I enjoy being on the receiving end of their great play and trying to finish off the chances they create.”

Sterling believes Liverpool have given themselves a chance of reaching a Wembley final against either Tottenham or Sheffield United after their first-leg performance, but says Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round tie at home to Bolton Wanderers is now the Reds’ only focus.

“That’s the most important game now,” he said. “Hopefully we can get the win there, then go into next week’s game at Stamford Bridge and get the result we need.

“We played very well against Chelsea, and were really composed. The other young lads like Emre (Can) and Lazar (Markovic) did really well. They were comfortable on the ball and really assured.

“We just hope we can take this into the game on Saturday.”