Wednesday 11 January 2017 21:57, UK
Jurgen Klopp says it would be "perfect" if Daniel Sturridge can prove his fitness and hold down a place in Liverpool's starting line-up.
The England striker is back to full fitness and is expected to feature for the Reds in their EFL Cup semi-final first leg against Southampton on Wednesday night, live on Sky Sports.
Sadio Mane is away on international duty with Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations but his form, and that of Klopp's other attacking players, Roberto Firmino and Adam Lallana, mean Sturridge has started just six games this season and appeared nine times as a substitute, scoring six goals for the club.
Klopp, however, indicated that Sturridge could play a more significant role if he remains fit for the second half of the season.
"If Daniel is fit are there ever any arguments here about his quality? 'No'," said Klopp. "If he stays on this fitness level and improving as he always should, that is perfect.
"It is perfect news for him and for us that he can perform. It would be cool if we could speak like this for the next few weeks and months."
Following the midweek cup encounter, second-placed Liverpool visit sixth-placed Manchester United in the Premier League on Super Sunday as part of Merseyside v Manchester.
"It would be fantastic and sometimes you need to feel lucky with timing," Klopp said.
"Sadio is away, Philippe (Coutinho) is on the way back (from injury) and Daniel is already back. That helps and I hope it stays like this for him."
