Liverpool: Daniel Sturridge's future must be assessed if he fails to stay fit says Mark Lawrenson

Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson believes it is best to let go of Daniel Sturridge if the striker fails to play regularly. The 26-year-old has spent more time on the sidelines in the last 15 months, nursing multiple injuries, than on the field.

The England international made seven starts in the league last season and has put in three appearances so far this term. Since Jurgen Klopp took over the reins at Anfield, he has not featured for the Reds.

Christian Benteke is the main striker at the Merseyside club, along with Sturridge, Divock Origi and Danny Ings as the alternatives. The latter is set for a long spell on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury.

Sturridge returned to the squad and was an unused substitute in his side's 4-1 win over Manchester City at the Etihad. The ex-Liverpool defender believes the English striker's ability to score goals will be no good if he fails to keep himself fit.

"Everybody knows Sturridge has great ability. There are no arguments about his capability of scoring goals, creating chances and tormenting opposing defences," Lawrenson told the Liverpool Echo. "But can he play 20 consecutive matches? Does he have that in him? Can he play in a slightly different role than he is used to at Liverpool? Under Jurgen Klopp, he may have to. You can never have a guarantee that a player is going to appear in every match.

"Players get injuries. But they shouldn't be having as many different injuries as Sturridge has had throughout his career. Liverpool have worked hard to rectify the problems, but if he doesn't start proving he can stay on the pitch, then it may be time to assess his future."

Jordan Henderson has also been out of action with a metatarsal injury since 18 September and is now closing in on a comeback. Lawrenson believes the Liverpool captain's return will be a massive boost for Klopp.

"Henderson, meanwhile, has been a real miss. We haven't had anybody from midfield who can run beyond the striker as Henderson can," the Anfield favourite explained.

"We know about his effort, application and willingness to run, and that will surely make him perfect for Klopp. Plus, he knows how to put himself about a bit, and without him we're a little bit soft.

"Players like Adam Lallana, Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino are all good players, but opponents feel if you get stuck into them, they may disappear. We've also missed Henderson's leadership qualities. As any manager will tell you, you can't have enough coaches out on the pitch."