'He's staying,' the Northern Irishman told a press conference after a 2-1 victory over Brisbane Roar.
'I've seen enough in this period; you judge young players, I always bring them in and over pre-season have a good idea of whether we're going to keep them or not.
'Seeing him, in particular close at hand and his personality - he'll be staying, he'll get games.'
Rodgers revealed he had wanted to see the versatile defender on the left-hand side but believes he can slot him into numerous positions because of his adaptability.
'He's only 18 years of age, but seeing him play at left-back for the first time, he looked an outstanding athlete and a really good footballer,' Rodgers added.
'I've seen him at centre-half and at right-back, but I wanted to see him at left-back - and I thought he was outstanding.'
That to me sounds like he'll be competing with Moreno for the leftback role this season.