The 20-year-old attacker started the campaign in fine form, with three goals in his opening five Premier League outings, but then went 20 games without scoring before netting against Bournemouth in midweek.
However, Rodgers has leapt to the defence of the England international and stated that his showing in Wednesday's 3-1 League Cup win - in which he scored twice - is proof of his importance to Liverpool.
"As I've said before he's an outstanding talent, he's been great for us," Rodgers told reporters. "It's been incredible the stick that the kid has received - people trying to criticise him and put the focus on to him.
"He's been outstanding for us and it was another great performance from him the other night in another difficult game."
Sterling has been employed in a more central attacking role in Liverpool's last two matches and Rodgers is pondering whether to do the same in Sunday's Premier League encounter with Arsenal at Anfield.
"The kid has been fantastic where ever he's played this season," he added. "Outstanding the other night. We'll just see what's in the best interests of the team."
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