Sturridge thankful to Rodgers

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has spoken of his gratitude towards manager Brendon Rodgers, regarding the opportunity he has been given to prove himself.

The 23 year old, who scored in England’s 8-0 victory over San Marino in Friday night’s World Cup Qualifier, is relishing the chance to start more games having been on the fringes at his previous clubs.

The forward, who made only a handful of starts for both Manchester City and Chelsea before becoming more involved last season, is keen to repay the faith shown in him by Rodgers, who signed him for a fee thought to be in the region of £12 million.

Elsewhere, the club have been linked with a move for Aston Villa forward Andreas Wiemann, after the Austrian international turned down an improved contract offer.

The 21 year old has been a rare shining light for a struggling Villa side who only recently seem to have steered away from serious worried of relegation, scoring eleven goals including a strike against the Reds at Anfield.

Finally, the Daily Star have reported that Xabi Alonso would need to take a pay cut if he was to re-sign for Liverpool, as the club would struggle to match the near £80,000 per week wage he currently earns at Real Madrid.