Boss: Dan has shown leadership qualities

Prior to January 31, the last glimpse Kopites were afforded of Sturridge in action for the side came at White Hart Lane in late August, as the England international helped orchestrate the 3-0 demolition of Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool went five months without the player who brought them 24 goals in all competitions last season until he was able to step from the bench to the delight of the Anfield faithful against West Ham United at the end of last month.

Since returning, Sturridge has scored twice in a total of five appearances, offering added menace along the Reds' frontline and creating opportunities for his teammates to influence the game.

Rodgers has also noted a renewed sense of leadership from the 25-year-old, who will be eager to play his part when the Reds welcome Besiktas to Anfield in Thursday night's Europa League Round of 32 first leg clash.

"He obviously had a tough period when he was out," Rodgers told reporters as he previewed tomorrow's encounter. "When you're that talented and you've got so much ability, to be out for that length of time is obviously very difficult.

"He's been able to go away and reflect on elements of his game. He hasn't just been recovering in terms of his injury, he's been analysing his game.

"What's been brilliant for me is he's come back and taken on a real leadership role as well. He's going back and I can see him organising at corners and set pieces and making sure that people are doing their job, as well as that wonderful ability that he has.

"He's a top-class talent and it's been great to see his movement and his relationship with other players in the system. He brings real light to it and his qualities, even though he's still looking for his fitness. He threatens in behind."

Against West Ham on his return to action, Sturridge drifted into space behind the opposition defence, collected a pass from Philippe Coutinho and struck a fierce effort beyond Adrian at his near post.

At the weekend, against Palace, the No.15 manoeuvred away from his marker to drill Jordan Henderson's stunning pass first time through the legs of Julian Speroni and haul Liverpool level in the FA Cup fifth round tie.

"He's a wonderful player, he can play in a number of positions," said Rodgers. "He threatens in behind with his wonderful footballing ability to hold the ball up. His movement is very good. And like we've seen in the period since he's come back, he's a natural goalscorer.

"His finish against Crystal Palace was an outstanding finish, with the ball coming over his shoulder. He wants to score goals and so he'll always be looking to arrive in the areas, no matter what position he plays in."