Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has claimed Manchester City star James Milner is "a wonderful player" but refused to confirm rumours about a summer move to Anfield.

The versatile midfielder's future at the Etihad Stadium looks uncertain as his contract with Manuel Pellegrini's side is due to expire at the end of the season.

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Recent reports have claimed both Arsenal and Liverpool are closely monitoring the situation.

Nevertheless, after the Reds allowed Steven Gerrard to leave Anfield on a free transfer at the end of this campaign, Rodgers is said to be considering the 29-year-old midfielder to fill the captain's void.

When asked about the England international during the press conference ahead of the game against Sunderland on Saturday 10 January, Rodgers said: "James is a wonderful player.

"Players get linked constantly with coming here, I would never speak about another player until they signed."

Meanwhile, speaking about Gerrard's departure, he said: "Nothing more to add.

"Everything has been said on that situation that needs to be said. No doubt Steve is a world-class talent but the club has to keep moving forward. There's an opportunity for others to grab that mantra."

Furthermore, Rodgers confirmed Daniel Sturridge was closing in on his return to action and will be back in England in "the next 24 hours" after making his recovery in the United States.

The English forward picked up a thigh injury at the start of September while on international duty and has since been unable to play due to a couple of recurrences during training.

"He'll be back in the country in the next 24 hours, he's into the final stages of his rehab. We're looking forward to having him back, we're hoping that some point in January he'll be back in the squad," the boss said.

"Daniel is a top-class player. He was wonder qualities and will make any team better. I'm hoping he can stay fit and make a charge for us."

Liverpool FC Brendan Rodgers