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Daniel Sturridge has revealed his current injury absence has been “the most difficult time” of his Liverpool FC career.

And the striker admits his body type means he could be susceptible to further muscle problems in the future.

Sturridge has not played for Liverpool since August after picking up a calf injury on his comeback to training following a thigh problem sustained while on international duty with England.

(Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

With the 25-year-old sidelined, the Reds have struggled for goals and form in the Premier League and have lost two of their first three Champions League group games.

And Sturridge said: “It has been the most difficult time for myself.

“Since I got the first injury at England, it has been mentally difficult to deal with it. I want to be playing and I'm putting pressure on myself to get back.

“I miss it and I want to be out there and I love playing football. Not being able to help has been the hardest thing for me.

“For me to be missing games is devastating. But I have to deal with it.

“I've been pushing myself in training day in, day out making sure when I come back I am prepared and not going to break down.

“It has been difficult after the World Cup not having a proper pre-season and going straight into it and picking up an injury.”

Brendan Rodgers suggested this week Sturridge could only be considered a truly great striker in Europe once overcomes continued muscle problems.

The forward has been sidelined on several occasions during the past two seasons but admits he is most likely prone to such injuries.

“Maybe it's my body type,” said the forward, speaking to TalkSPORT.

“Maybe it's hereditary. My uncle had a lot of injuries when he played, my dad had them as well.

“Maybe the Caribbean vibes give me speed but it also makes you more vulnerable to injuries because of the fast-twitch muscles.

“When it comes to being one of the best players in Europe, if I continue to work hard then everything will take care of itself.”

Sturridge is not expected to be fit for Saturday's trip to Newcastle United with Liverpool aiming to move nearer the Champions League qualification places by extending their unbeaten league run to five games.

And while the Reds have not convinced this season, the forward believes they can turn the corner soon enough.

“There is an improvement to come,” said Sturridge. “The manager is very persistent on how he wants us to play. His methods will always breed success.

“We were very close last season. This season we'll try our best to get into the Champions League.

“We are trying to achieve something this season in terms of a trophy. It's about being a winner, I love that feeling of something to show for it.

“The message to fans is when I come back I'm always looking to score goals and help the team win games and win medals.

“I know what's expected of myself and what's expected when you put on a Liverpool shirt. I have to put in more than 100% for the shirt. The fans deserve success again.”