Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge in contention to make long-awaited injury return

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is on the verge of a first-team return, after five months out injured, for the Premier League visit of Norwich City. The England international's fitness will be assessed ahead of the game before a decision is made over his role in the match at Anfield.

Sturridge has not played since April after undergoing hip surgery in the United States and has only recently returned to first-team training. The Reds have scored just three goals in their first five league games and the 26-year-old's return is much anticipated with Brendan Rodgers's side struggling in front of goal.

Christian Benteke, Divock Origi and Danny Ings have all filled the void so far this term for Liverpool, with the former having netted twice against AFC Bournemouth and Manchester United, but Rodgers is relishing the return of Sturridge. The ex-Chelsea and Manchester City hitman has not made a league start since March but could be called upon ahead of schedule.

"Daniel [Sturridge] has been training with the team for a week or so, so will be assessed," he said, according to the Liverpool Echo. "We've got players hopefully coming back that will add to the squad and see us go on a run of games. A player who can get you 25-plus goals in a season is going to be missed.

"It's about staying calm, reinforcing how we get into positions for goals. We will get there. On his game he's one of the best there is. He can stretch teams, and has wonderful variety in his finishing."

After returning from having treatment on a heel problem in the United States, which has kept him out of Liverpool's last four games – including the 1-1 draw with Bordeaux - captain Jordan Henderson is also in contention for a recall. Kolo Toure, meanwhile, who was replaced by debutant Pedro Chirivella after 28 minutes in the Europa League stalemate, could also feature.

"Jordan [Henderson] will train today," the Liverpool boss added. "Jordan's impact has grown during my time here. When you miss players of that calibre it's going to have an impact. He knows he needed to get this injury right. We are trying to give our players the best possible opportunity to stay fit. It was more in relationship to the nerve, hopefully that will be cleared up. We'll see how he [Toure] is after tomorrow's session."