Liverpool Striker Daniel Sturridge Could Make Injury Return Against Aston Villa

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge could return in time for the Premier League visit of Aston Villa after indicating he is set for an immediate recovery from a thigh injury.

Sturridge missed England's Euro 2016 qualifying win over Switzerland on Monday after withdrawing from training at St George's Park last Friday.

Danny Welbeck led the England attack and scored twice for Roy Hodgson's side in the absence of Sturridge, who reports suggested was on course to miss the game against Villa as well as the Champions League opener against Ludogorets Razgrad.

However, the 25-year-old has taken to Instagram to calm fears over his latest injury, writing: "Be back soon..."

The former Manchester City and Chelsea forward has played every minute of Liverpool's Premier League campaign, scoring in the opening weekend win over Southampton to start his tally for the new season.

Sturridge suffered a series of hamstring injuries last season and this latest blow will draw further questions over his fragility.

Should Sturridge indeed miss the next two games Rickie Lambert would be expected to lead the Reds' attack this weekend against Villa, with Mario Balotelli likely to start the club's Champions League crusade mid-week.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will give an update on Sturridge's fitness during his press conference on Friday to preview the game against Villa.

Reports on Wednesday have meanwhile suggested that Sturridge's form, which saw him net 24 goals in all competitions last season, will be rewarded with a new contract that could see him become one of the highest paid players at Anfield.

The England international will be offered a contract worth £140,000-a-week, double his current wage, in order to tempt the player into agreeing to a long-term deal on Merseyside.

The contract will also be heavily incentivised, with bonuses included for goals, appearances and silverware.