Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed his belief that both Lucas Leiva and Kolo Toure have been "vital" parts of the team in the last few weeks.

The duo, who have had limited playing time this season, featured in last Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Ludogorets Razgrad in the Champions League and Saturday's 1-0 win over Stoke City.

"I think their contribution has been vital in the last two games," Rodgers told Liverpool's official website. "They are players who understand the league, players who are experienced and players who are winners. Both have been outstanding and they haven't played a great deal, but they've come into the team and done very well."

The Reds are currently 11th in the league table after 13 games.