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JAMIE CARRAGHER believes he has proved many doubters wrong by becoming a vital part of Liverpool under Brendan Rodgers.

Some feared that the long-serving Reds defender would struggle to hold down a place in the Ulsterman’s new regime at Anfield.

Carragher initially struggled to break up the Daniel Agger-Martin Skrtel partnership at the heart of Liverpool’s defence but forced his way back into the side after Christmas.

“At the start of the season I was aware that some people were saying I wouldn’t suit Rodgers’ style of football. But I think I have put that to bed in the last few games I have played,” he said

“I think I’ve played well this season, without blowing my own trumpet. Even earlier in the season when I was playing in Europe and in the Carling Cup, I was quite pleased with how I performed.

“Hopefully I can carry that through to the end of the season.”

Carragher, who plans to retire at the end of the season, has been one of only a handful of senior players left at Melwood during the international break.

But the 35-year-old enjoys the chance to cast an eye over some of the club’s emerging talent who have been invited down from the Academy for the week.

“I enjoy international week because you get to see some of the young lads who have come down from the Academy,” he explained. “I’ve been very impressed with Jordan Rossiter. He’s done very well.

“It’s a good time to recharge physically and mentally and get ready for Aston Villa.”