The celebration dance returns: Sturridge scores twice as Liverpool defeats Aston Villa

Entering Saturday, Daniel Sturridge went 266 days without scoring in the Premier League as a result of hip surgery he underwent in early May.

The clock can be reset.

Making only his second appearance since returning from the injury, Sturridge tallied a pair of goals to propel Liverpool to a 3-2 victory over Aston Villa that should allow manager Brendan Rodgers, the Merseyside club's scapegoat, to see another day at Anfield.

Sturridge's goals came within a 10-minute span in the second half, as he gave Liverpool a two-goal lead in the 58th minute by rocketing a left-footed volley past Brad Guzan - resulting in the return of his trademark celebration dance - before restoring his club's two-goal lead in the 67th minute.

Related: Daniel Sturridge scores for 1st time since return from hip surgery

Beyond that, Sturridge produced the type of performance Liverpool supporters have anxiously been awaiting, causing endless problems for Villa's backline.

Of course, no one was more relieved by Sturridge's goal-scoring exploits than Rodgers, who gave a thumbs-up to Liverpool's directors' box after the final whistle.

Amid speculation that his time at Anfield is reaching its expiry date, the Welsh manager sounded pessimistic while addressing his future Friday, saying: "What I'll always do is give my best to the club and if they decide they need to change, I'll totally respect that."

Related: Brendan Rodgers would 'totally respect' Liverpool if they change managers

Following Saturday's win, Rodgers must feel like some weight has been lifted, for which he can thank Sturridge and his supporting cast.