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Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge says his injury troubles are making him stronger and he looks forward to returning "soon enough".

The 25-year-old has not played since September because of thigh and calf injuries and last week suffered a new thigh problem that will keep him out until the new year.

"Through all this I'm growing as a man and an athlete,"

"Another door to break down. I'll be back soon enough - strong and ready."

Sturridge scored 25 goals last season but his injuries have limited him to only three games for the Reds during the current campaign.

He was initially injured when on international duty with England before suffering two setbacks in training with Liverpool.

"Everybody goes through things in life that can make or break them," he added. "This for me is another hurdle to jump over."

Liverpool won two of the three games which Sturridge played, but in his absence have picked up only eight points from nine games to lie 12th in the Premier League.

They have also struggled in the Champions League and could be eliminated if they are beaten by Bulgarian side Ludogrets Razgrad on Wednesday.