The challenge of displacing either Daniel Sturridge or Luis Suarez from the Liverpool starting XI is clearly a monumental one – but Iago Aspas has never wavered from the task, according to Brendan Rodgers.

A total of 49 goals have been plundered by the Reds' strike duo in the Barclays Premier League this season, with their form consistently restricting the Spanish No.9 to appearances from the bench.

His passion and determination to succeed at Anfield is obvious and unaffected, however; note his raucous celebrations upon watching a teammate find the back of the net, for example.

That support, in addition to his work ethic in training, has not gone unnoticed by the manager, who has praised the former Celta Vigo forward for a show of faultless professionalism and mentality.

"I really feel for Iago. It's been so difficult for him," Rodgers explained.

"He has a world-class striker in Luis Suarez for competition and another who has come in and done exceptionally well in Daniel Sturridge. Daniel is potentially world-class and I'm sure we will see that over the coming seasons.

"But that has never stopped Iago working well every day in training. He has never given up the fight. He may have only come on for small periods in games but he has made a contribution.

"I've got the utmost respect for Iago and his professionalism. He keeps working, he has a great character and mentality."