Sturridge pledges future to Liverpool following injury nightmares

Daniel Sturridge is insistent his future lies at Liverpool after questions have been levelled at the forward over his commitment to the club in recent weeks.

The England international's undeniable talent and untapped potential has been hit by a succession of injuries over the past 18 months, but even his manager Jurgen Klopp wasn't overly convinced by the severity of his ailments, urging Sturridge "to learn what is serious pain and what is only pain" in November.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash with FC Augsburg, the 26-year-old reiterated that he wants to continue at Anfield.

"Of course it's been a difficult time being injured, but it's part of football and I'm now looking forward to the future with Liverpool," Sturridge said. "There is not really much to stress or worry about. I have been pretty relaxed the whole time and I am happy here."

Sturridge claimed that he doesn't read criticism received on social media, but said he was aware of claims from some ex-Liverpool players who said he was reluctant to take the field for the Reds.

"To say a player doesn't want to play is the biggest disrespect ever to any footballer and it's astonishing. It's very disappointing whoever was saying it," he admitted.

"It's football and of course people are entitled to opinions but all I can say is don't think anyone will understand how much it means to me to play football."

Sturridge further stressed that he has been working hard on his rehabilitation while sidelined with his issues.

"I'm not at home chilling, I'm not out with friends living life to the full," he said. "I'm not happy, I'm sitting in the stands or at home devastated at watching my teammates play.

"It hurts hearing second- and third-hand what people say. I'd say a lot of them aren't saying the truth. All I want to do is help this team have success - that's the most important thing, nothing else matters."

Following Liverpool's goalless draw at the WWK ARENA last week, Klopp will require a professional performance from his ranks in Thursday's second leg against Augsburg if they're to advance to the Europa League's Round of 16.