Boss: We need to help Sturridge find his rhythm
Jürgen Klopp has expressed delight over Daniel Sturridge's return to action and says the striker's focus is now on finding the rhythm that can bring about his best form.
The 26-year-old has started the Reds' last two fixtures against Aston Villa and FC Augsburg after overcoming a series of injury problems, and is in contention to face the latter again at Anfield on Thursday.
Sturridge's initial comeback at Villa Park resulted in him finding the net again, but his manager knows there is still a lot more to come.
Klopp now wants to ensure the No.15 plays consistently in the coming weeks to regain the sharpness that will allow him to operate at maximum capacity for the remainder of the season.
"It’s good to have him back, there's no doubt. But even a player like Daniel needs rhythm and that's what we try to give him," the German said at a press conference to preview the Reds' Europa League last-32, second-leg meeting with Augsburg.
"You can always think about leaving him out but he has to start games, that’s pretty important to get the best shape and that's what we try together.
"It's absolutely the opposite to not [having him available].
"Not even Daniel Sturridge can give the best performances like this [instantly], he needs to play football, he needs to do things on the pitch, and then he will be happy altogether."
Klopp also admitted Thursday's game is a last chance for a number of players to force their way into his plans for the Capital One Cup final against Manchester City on Sunday.
But the Reds boss was keen to emphasise the importance of keeping the weekend trip to Wembley far from the players' thoughts.
"It’s an opportunity to prove that they can start. That’s how it should be," he added.
"It's a football game, we want to win - everyone can say it but we have to show it. That’s all I can say and then we make decisions.
"You cannot say stay outside, watch the game and we can keep you [fresh]. We have to show that we are able to 100 per cent be concentrated in this game, and then we will have a real good chance in the final.
"But if we give this game away and say, 'we have a final on the weekend', then in my opinion we don't deserve [to win the final].
"We could lose tomorrow because Augsburg are strong - I know you don't think this - but you can lose. But you have to show you tried everything and if you try everything then it's okay and you deserve [victories].
"Life is really fair: if you give all, you don't get all [every] time but it's the only chance to get something. I hope it’s not a test, I hope we show we want to win this game and then finish the game and think about the next one."