Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has described Jose Enrique's performances for the club as "outstanding".

The Spaniard's career at Anfield was in doubt after he struggled to gain a first-team place, although he has now forced his way back in to the side.

The 26-year-old has started the past five Premier League games and also scored his first goal for the club. Rodgers has deployed the defender further up the field recently, starting the former Newcastle United man in midfield.

"I think he has been outstanding," said Rodgers. "It is a great credit to him because he and I spoke earlier in the season about trying to improve his game.

"Further up the field he is a real threat going forward with his pace and power and you can see in the last three games how determined he is to get a goal.

"He has been a real plus for us and it is great to see because he has worked hard and it hasn't been easy for him. I am delighted for him because he is a good guy and wants to do well for this club."

Enrique joined Liverpool in 2011 from Newcastle for around £7m.