Steven Gerrard’s enduring value to a stuttering Liverpool has been questioned in recent weeks but Brendan Rodgers is determined to extend his captain’s contract at Anfield.

Saturday’s 1-0 loss to a resurgent Newcastle may have served to underline the value of the player as Liverpool’s season continues to disintegrate.

Although Gerrard will be 35 in May, Rodgers wants to offer him a new deal when his agreement expires in June and the Liverpool manager regards the idea of his midfield cornerstone departing next summer as unthinkable. “It’s quite straightforward,” said Rodgers, who has made his feelings plain to all parties concerned. “I had a meeting with Steven’s representative explaining the situation. I very much want him to be a part of what we are doing here.

“He’s been a brilliant captain for me. I relayed that to the ownership. I’m sure everyone will go away with that and hopefully his representative will organise a deal. Steven is very much part of what I’m doing here. He’s a unique player; a unique talent.”

Meanwhile, Alan Pardew’s standing as Newcastle manager was enhanced after guiding them to a fourth successive victory. The 53-year-old, who has come under intense pressure, saw striker Ayoze Pérez come off the bench to fire Newcastle to victory, their third on the trot in the league inside a morale-boosting fortnight. Pardew said: “I always knew, and I kept saying it, that we have good spirit and good talent. I am not saying I saw the wins coming, but I knew there was talent.”