Tom Werner "hopeful" of Raheem Sterling Liverpool deal

Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has revealed that he is "hopeful" of tying Raheem Sterling to a long-term contract.

The England international's future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks, with reports claiming that the youngster will turn down a new deal.

However, Werner says that he is still confident of reaching an agreement with Sterling soon.

He told the Liverpool Echo: "All I can say is that I'm hopeful that we'll conclude a deal. Obviously it's important for us. He's an exceptional player.

"Brendan [Rodgers] and Ian Ayre are quite involved and Brendan is talking to Raheem about this and I hope and expect a very positive outcome that is good for Raheem - and good for the club.

"I would say that I'm confident that we will reach an agreement that works for all parties."

Sterling sat out Liverpool's 3-2 win against Tottenham Hotspur due to injury.