Daniel: We'll stick to same approach

The Reds go into the Anfield contest just two points behind Louis van Gaal's side and aiming to maintain their 13-match unbeaten Barclays Premier League run to enhance their prospects of securing Champions League football in the process.

Sturridge acknowledges it's a game of importance, but echoed the sentiments of Simon Mignolet in stressing the value of remaining concentrated on the task in hand and not becoming distracted by any media talk around the fixture.

"That's how I look at it, the same way as Si looks at it - it's another three points," the striker told Liverpoolfc.com.

"Of course, it's a rivalry, but it's another three points and we'll just approach the game as we always do - that's the most important thing.

"It's going to be a big game for us. We're going into the game looking to win it, as we always do, and we're looking forward to it.

"We'll go into this game with the right mentality, we'll look to play our football and to try to go out there and win the game.

"That's the most important thing - to play our football. If we do that then hopefully everything will take care of itself."

Meanwhile, Sturridge has paid tribute to the form of Philippe Coutinho, who has been a driving force in Liverpool's turnaround since December.

The No.15 said: "He's great to play with. He's very skilful, sees a pass and scores very nice goals, also, so it's a pleasure to play with him.

"He's quite chilled, he's not too loud. He has a little bit of a joke, but he's just a relaxed, calm guy. He comes in and does his work and is humble, just like everyone else is.

"I think it's down to him to work as hard as he possibly can to get to where he wants to be - and I am sure he wants to aim for the stars.

"That's very possible with the attributes he has, so as long as he continues doing what he's doing, I'm sure he'll go a long way in the game."