Liverpool batters Norwich 5-0

Luis Suarez put aside the latest controversial episode in his checkered Liverpool career by doing what he does best, scoring in the team’s 5-0 thrashing of Norwich in the English Premier League on Saturday.

The Uruguay striker made more headlines for the wrong reasons this week by admitting he dived in a match against Stoke at the start of the season, earning a rebuke from manager Brendan Rodgers.

However, he remains invaluable on the pitch for Liverpool and after helping set up Jordan Henderson for a well-taken opener in 26th minute at Anfield, Suarez grabbed his 16th goal of the campaign 10 minutes later.

Daniel Sturridge — with his third goal in three games following his move from Chelsea — Steven Gerrard and Ryan Bennett’s own goal completed the rout in the second half, with the Suarez-Sturridge strike partnership displaying encouraging early steps.

“They linked very well, obviously both got on the scoresheet, which was great,” Rodgers said. “Luis has done what he has done for us all season, given us 100 per cent every game, and he combined well with Daniel up front.

“I think it gives the opponent someone else to worry about. Suarez has been incredible for us but you now have a recognised goal scorer up beside him.”

Norwich has been a compliant opponent for Liverpool — conceding 13 goals in their last three meetings — and this latest win lifted the hosts provisionally to within three points of fifth-place Everton, which occupies the final European spot for next season.