Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers believes that Luis Suarez has played a major role in his improvement as manager.

The Northern Irishman managed to keep hold of the Uruguayan last summer, despite the striker admitting that he wanted to leave Anfield.

After serving a 10-match ban for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic last season, the 27-year-old returned to action to eventually score 31 goals and clinch numerous personal awards for his efforts on Merseyside.

While picking up Suarez's Football Writers' Association award on behalf of the striker, Rodgers told reporters: "For me, he has challenged me every day of my life, he's done everything that you would need to do at the top level of the game as a player.

"He is a winner, his determination is unique, he is absolutely relentless. He is someone that trains every single day of his life - he doesn't look for an excuse.

"I know for however long I am at Liverpool, whenever I leave I will have become a better manager and a better person because of Luis Suarez and for that I thank him so much."

Liverpool finished second in the Premier League table, two points behind champions Manchester City.