Former Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy has admitted that he feels sorry for Daniel Sturridge despite his positive start to the Premier League campaign. The England international has struggled with numerous injury concerns over the years but he has started the new season in good form after netting from the bench against West Ham United.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Bellamy hailed the qualities of the England international, who has got another opportunity to impress under Jurgen Klopp. Nonetheless, the Welshman feels sorry for the former Chelsea man and believes the striker can only realistically aim for a regular role from the substitutes’ bench.

He said: “Sturridge is a good kid and a top player. He’s very impressive and can see a pass. He can create, has an eye for goal and makes good runs. He’s an intelligent footballer. I feel for him, I just want to see him fit because when he’s fit, he’s an outstanding player. It would be difficult to accept it, but at this stage of his career, he just has to stay injury free. He will only be able to contribute to the team or threaten a place in the starting line-up if he trains hard and does well.”

Sturridge was regularly in the goals for Liverpool during their pre-season campaign and he has started the regular season in a similar fashion after netting within 24 seconds off his second half appearance against the Hammers. Nonetheless, the Englishman does not have the assurance of a regular starting role and he may have to wait for a potential injury concern to break into the first XI.

Meanwhile, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has recently confirmed that talks are underway regarding a new contract with the 28-year-old after showing the ambition to succeed with the Merseyside outfit. Sturridge’s current deal is due to expire at the end of the season but an injury-free campaign should certainly earn him an extension with a decent pay hike.