Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge could partner new boy Christian Benteke NEXT MONTH

The 25-year-old has spent the summer recuperating in the United States after undergoing surgery on his torn hip muscle.

Sturridge hopes to be fit for selection following the next global break – England have European Championship qualifiers with San Marino on Sept 5 and Switzerland on Sept 8.

Sturridge made only seven Premier League starts last season because of a series of injuries, and did not play for Liverpool at all between the end of August 2014 and the end of January 2015 after suffering two thigh problems and a calf injury.

And if all goes well, he can target the visit to Old Trafford on September 12 as his comeback date. It is believed the hip complaint may have been the trigger for other injury problems.

Daniel Sturridge has provided an update on his progress, assuring Liverpool fans that he is drawing closer to a first team return at Anfield.

“We anticipate that Daniel will be back, hopefully to train around about September”, said manager Brendan Rodgers back in May.

With Danny Ings and Divock Origi also for company this year, it’ll be even more important than ever for Sturridge that he gets back playing soon, so as to protect his place in the side. It should be a contrast to last season when – with Sturridge absent – Rodgers regularly felt compelled to pick a starting line-up with no recognised centre-forward.

England striker Sturridge has been given the all-clear to return to training within the next fortnight after missing virtually all last season. His price is £21.2million and likely will be accepted by Liverpool.

In the meantime, Liverpool will be grateful the striker is approaching fitness again after a nightmare 12 months.