Adam Lallana hails "world-class" Daniel Sturridge after Liverpool brace

Adam Lallana has lauded his "world-class" Liverpool teammate Daniel Sturridge following his brace in Wednesday's 6-1 League Cup blitz at Southampton.

Sturridge scored the Reds' first two goals of the night in what was his first start under manager Jurgen Klopp, having been injured since early October.

"He showed exactly what he's about and why we want him back and in the team," said Lallana, speaking to Liverpool's official website.

"He's massive for us, he's a world-class player. Within 10 minutes he finished two brilliant chances and we're in the lead after a sloppy start."

Klopp, who replaced Brendan Rodgers on Merseyside, admitted afterwards that he had not expected the 26-year-old to be as good as he is.