Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge savours Europa League semi-final strike after returning to starting line-up

Daniel Sturridge said that his goal in Liverpool’s 3-0 Europa League semi-final triumph over Villarreal on Thursday was a reward for his perseverance during a personally complicated season.

Injuries kept Sturridge on the sidelines in the early stages of manager Juergen Klopp’s tenure and in Liverpool’s recent games in the competition, he found himself on the bench due to Klopp’s preference for Divock Origi.

But with Origi currently out due to an injury of his own, Sturridge seized his opportunity against Villarreal, scoring Liverpool’s second goal – which prompted an explosive celebration – and having a hand in their two other efforts as they completed a 3-1 aggregate win.

“There will always be ups and downs in football,” the England striker told BT Sport during an on-pitch interview at a raucous Anfield.

“It is about being prepared to put your body on the line and take chances. It is a great feeling.”