Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard played the full 90 in their 3-1 win at Leicester City.
The Reds midfielder, who is delaying making a decision on the offer of a new contract - believed to be a one-year deal - to extend his stay beyond the summer, scored the crucial second in a 3-1 at Leicester.
It helped Liverpool come from behind after Simon Mignolet's unfortunate own goal had been cancelled out by Adam Lallana's 50th career league goal and, after Wes Morgan was sent off, Gerrard even had a hand in his side's third for Jordan Henderson.
"At this moment in time I know Steven Gerrard," said Rodgers, who restored his captain to the side after resting him against Stoke at the weekend.
"If I can manage his training and games he can still have real impact for this team.
"Even though he is approaching 35 at the end of this year he still has fantastic qualities but like every other player, no matter how good they are, the wheels are out and they are ready to land - but he is not ready to land yet.
"At this stage of his career it is about the level of the game and he is a very important player for us.
"He is not 24 any more. You have to do that (manage workloads) with players at this part of their career so it is about mapping out the rest of the season for him.
"I think you saw the energy in his legs tonight and his influence in the game, especially as it wore on. It was an outstanding performance from Steven and an excellent goal."
