Jordan Henderson, 24, Liverpool's stand-in captain in Steven Gerrard's absence, continued his good form with another outstanding goal as Liverpool defeated relegation favourites Burnley 2-0 at Anfield. On Wednesday night he provided an impressive performance and inspired his club as a true captain should.

Henderson's opening goal in the 29th minute was his second score in a Premier League match in a row. Soon after the opener, he also smashed in a twenty-yard half-volley, which curled away from the Burnley keeper Tom Heaton, after Philipe Coutinho, 22, had his shot blocked.

The England midfielder then turned provider in the 51st minute, as he whipped in a Gerrard-like ball straight on to the head of the onrushing Daniel Sturridge, 25, who headed in magnificently.

The England forward, Sturridge, was also determined to make an impression right from the start on his return to the Liverpool starting line-up. Following his injuries, he has not been used much by Rogers in several months. However, his recent involvement in cup games demonstrated that he was fit to be a regular member of the Reds' first team again and he delivered an excellent performance at Anfield.

Sean Dyche did not change his side for the fourth successive game, after claiming that that particular eleven are one of the fittest in the league.

It was a 'backs to the ball' performance however, and their only chance of note in the first half came in the form of an unimpressive header by Ashley Barnes, which was effortlessly saved.

The Clarets approached the second-half with the belief that they could take something from the game, but Sturridge's goal, early after the interval, meant that they went home pointless.

Burnley's defeat means that they have now won only once in their last 12 games. Their challenges do not get any easier with matches against Manchester City, Southampton, Tottenham and Arsenal in their next four games - which will surely define their future.

Liverpool are now fifth, only two points off Manchester United in fourth place. This is their seventh win in eight league games, and it is evident that Brendan Rodgers means business as the Reds chase a coveted Champions League place, come the end of the season.