Liverpool 'hopeful' Daniel Sturridge will return for start of season

Liverpool have attempted to alleviate fears over striker Daniel Sturridge's fitness by suggesting that he will be fit for the start of the season.

There had been reports that the former Chelsea forward would be sidelined for the beginning of the 2013-14 campaign due to a knee injury.

Despite these claims, Liverpool have released a statement expressing their "hope" that the 23-year-old will be in manager Brendan Rodgers's Premier League squad.

"Liverpool's medical staff had to allow the swelling to reduce before a final assessment was made," said the club via the official website.

Sturridge, who has netted 11 goals in 16 appearances since moving to Anfield in January, picked up the injury during England's 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland.