Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers hailed Raheem Sterling's performance for their dramatic 3-2 win at QPR.
Sterling shook off controversy over claims he complained of tiredness in the build-up to England's Euro 2016 qualifier in Estonia to mastermind Liverpool's patchy Loftus Road win.
"I thought his cleverness and brightness led to the first goal," said Rodgers of Sterling.
"The best players come alive when the game goes dead, whether it's a throw-in or in the game.
"Some players look for a rest or try to get organised, but the bright players come alive.
"He spotted it, played it early: it was a great run from Glen Johnson to invite the quick ball, and obviously a great cross that the defender turned in.
"And the breakaways for the other two, they are just all about his speed, his technique, his courage to carry the ball, run with the ball.
"It was great courage and cleverness from him today."
