Daniel Sturridge returns and Liverpool start scoring, 'it's not rocket science' says Brendan Rodgers

By Dominic King for The Mail on Sunday

Published: 14:55 EST, 26 September 2015 | Updated: 17:18 EST, 26 September 2015

Daniel Sturridge showed Liverpool what they have been missing with two goals of the highest standard that left Brendan Rodgers hailing his impact.

The England international was starting for only the second time this season but he showed that his finishing skills have not been been dulled by the hip surgery he underwent in May; his goals after half-time secured a crucial 3-2 win over Aston Villa and they were his first since March 22.

It was no coincidence, Rodgers said, that Liverpool scored three goals in a game for the first time since February with Sturridge back in the starting line-up and the manager saw signs of potential in his partnership with Danny Ings.

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Damiel Sturridge (left) had been out of action during the summer with a hip problem, with Danny Ings (right)

Damiel Sturridge (left) had been out of action during the summer with a hip problem, with Danny Ings (right)

The 26-year-old England international hit in his second goal after combining with Philippe Coutinho

The 26-year-old England international hit in his second goal after combining with Philippe Coutinho

'It is not rocket science,' said Rodgers. 'The last time we scored three goals was when he started against Tottenham. If you want to compete at the top you need quality.

'Daniel has shown in his time here that he is a real top talent. I thought he was outstanding and he was probably disappointed that he didn’t get a hat-trick.

'His overall game and touch were outstanding, a great combination with Danny Ings. The first time they have started and showed that understanding that good players have.'

Sturridge (left) scored his first with a a left footed volley after returning from hip surgery he underwent in May

Sturridge (left) scored his first with a a left footed volley after returning from hip surgery he underwent in May

Ex-Chelsea forward Sturridge performs his trademark dance after scoring, with strike partner Ings

Ex-Chelsea forward Sturridge performs his trademark dance after scoring, with strike partner Ings

Tim Sherwood, meanwhile, was left to bemoan Aston Villa's dreadful start. He had a game plan to frustrate the Anfield crowd but it was destroyed when James Milner scored after 55 seconds.

He feels mistakes like that will happen because his team is young and inexperienced.

'We will always score goals,' said Sherwood. 'If you score two at Anfield you expect to take something from the game but we didn’t do that.

That is a major disappointment but it is something I expected. It is a young group of players we acquired.

The club decided it was the best way to go forward. I am very privileged to have the chance to work with them but it comes with its ups and downs.'


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