Daniel Sturridge 'hopeful of Merseyside derby return'

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is reportedly hopeful of a return to action in time for the Merseyside derby with Everton later this month.

The England forward sustained a thigh injury on international duty and was ruled out for around three weeks.

However, according to The Mirror, Sturridge is looking to make his comeback for the visit of their fierce local rivals on September 27 after returning to light training at the Reds' Melwood complex.

Sturridge scored 21 Premier League goals last season as Brendan Rodgers's side finished second to Manchester City.