Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge expected to return for Crystal Palace clash

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has claimed that he expects Daniel Sturridge to return to action in time for this weekend's Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Anfield.

The England international was ruled out of last Saturday's Premier League opener against Watford, which ended in a 3-3 draw at Vicarage Road.

Klopp praised Sturridge's form during pre-season, but the striker suffered a setback when he pulled up after scoring in a 3-0 win over Bayern Munich in the Audi Cup.

The 27-year-old was left out of the travelling squad for Tuesday's Champions League qualifier first leg against Hoffenheim, but is expected to be fit for the weekend.

Klopp told reporters: "He is in a good way. We had a talk this morning and he was really close, he looked good yesterday. Two more sessions and he will be available for the weekend."

Sturridge made just seven Premier League starts last season due to injury problems and dropping down the pecking order.