Liverpool have been given a major blow with the news that Daniel Sturridge will miss another six weeks of action due to yet another injury.

The forward has not played for the club since suffering a thigh injury while on international duty with England back in September. He has represented Liverpool in only three league matches this campaign. His absence is seen as one of the main reasons for the club struggling to score goals. The Reds have slipped to 11th position in the table after the latest defeat against Chelsea just before the international break.

Brendan Rodgers was very confident of getting Sturridge back in the starting line-up for the Sunday’s trip to Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old, who signed a new contract worth around £ 150,000 per week only a few months ago, has suffered yet another thigh injury in the same left leg that was causing him problems in September. Liverpool confirmed the bad news in a statement. Sturridge may not return until 2015. Due to the injury concern surrounding the star asset, Liverpool are reportedly ready to make contingency plans in January by buying a new striker at recalling Divock Origi from his loan spell.

Rodgers recently said that Sturridge may not be regarded as a world-class striker unless he plays often and scores goals."Liverpool Football Club today confirmed scans have revealed Daniel Sturridge has sustained a new thigh injury.The player will remain unavailable for selection but will be monitored and assessed during his recovery," said a statement on the Liverpool’s official site.

Liverpool’s form has nosedived in the absence of Sturridge. The likes of Lambert, Mario Balotelli, and Fabio Borini are yet to open their account in the Premier league this season. Liverpool have lost their last three matches in all competitions and they also have a crucial Champions League match on Wednesday.