Thursday 28 July 2016 21:41, UK
Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge admits he has had to endure the "most intense" pre-season of his career under Jurgen Klopp this summer.
The 26-year-old, who missed much of last season through injury, returned to club duty last week following a disappointing Euro 2016 campaign with England.
Sturridge joined up with the majority of his team-mates at the club's training base in California last week, as Liverpool continue their pre-season tour of the United States.
And the former Manchester City and Chelsea man admits he has been pushed to the limits by Klopp's training sessions.
"It has been a lot of hard work, running sessions and tactical sessions," Sturridge told LFC TV.
"I am feeling fresh. Pre-season is about pushing your body to the limits and it is one of those things where you have to battle and push yourself through the sessions.
"It is probably the most intense (pre-season) I have experienced at any club.
"It is certainly something everyone is getting used to and something which will hopefully put us in good stead for the rest of the season.
"I think there is more emphasis on tactics because there is time to develop but it will take time."
Sturridge made just 14 league appearances for the Reds last season after missing the start of the campaign through injury.
He was also ruled out for two months midway through the season after picking up a hamstring problem.
The striker was criticised by some for his lack of game time last term but Sturridge insists he pays no attention to the negative comments about his fitness.
"I am not someone who looks at what people say. I focus on pushing myself and doing the best for my body," he said.
"It is about being successful, being a winner, setting yourself targets and beating them. I just believe it is important to let your feet do the talking and that is what I will be looking to do."
Liverpool's main aim this season will be to challenge for the Premier League title after the club failed to qualify for Europe.
And Sturridge believes Klopp's new signings, which include big money transfers Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum, could be the key to ending Liverpool's 26-year wait for a league title.
"I think it is about improving it. It is important I continue to focus on myself and with my team-mates and new players I think it is possible to improve it," he said.
"It is possible to have a great season. Everyone has to step up and do their own job. If everyone does their job we will be successful.
"I am looking forward to the season and I think the signings we have made will help us push on to the next level. We are looking to be successful and win trophies, that is something I have not tasted yet with Liverpool."
