Liverpool's Sturridge ahead of schedule, could be available vs. Arsenal

Liverpool might have one of their top attacking options available in time for Saturday's crucial match against Arsenal.

Manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed Daniel Sturridge's return to training after suffering a hip injury, saying a decision won't be made on his availability until closer to the game as they see how he responds to Thursday's session.

“It was his first day back in so he wasn't as sharp as he would want to be, but he’s back training with the team and should be fine for the weekend,” Rodgers was quoted saying in the Liverpool Echo.

The news surely comes as a relief to Liverpool supporters after initial reports suggested Sturridge could miss a month because of the injury.

If he's fit, Sturridge's presence will be critical for Liverpool's quest to clinch a Champions League spot. A win against Arsenal away from home is critical to their chances, as they sit five points out of fourth place behind Manchester United and six points back of Arsenal.