Joe Gomez has admitted that it is a massive boost for Liverpool to have striker Daniel Sturridge fit and firing once again.

Sturridge has hit the ground running at Anfield since returning from a disappointing loan spell with West Bromwich Albion in the second half of last season.

The 29-year-old netted from long range against former club Chelsea at the weekend to rescue Liverpool a 1-1 draw, while also taking his goals tally to four in seven outings - five of those coming from the bench.

Reds defender Gomez believes that his teammate remains one of the best strikers on the planet, telling reporters: "To have Studge fully fit and firing is massive for us this season. He's right up there in terms of strikers in the world.

"I don't think many players would even have taken on the shot from where he was [against Chelsea]. The angle was unbelievable. It shows the belief he's got in himself. All of us at the football club know how good Studge is and we're really happy for him.

"I could see it from the first day of pre-season. He was right on it from the get-go. He has attacked everything. He's been so focused the whole time in training.

"He has hardly missed a session. We all know how good he can be. I am just happy for him. We were all buzzing that he was able to contribute like that."

Sturridge is now in contention to start Liverpool's Champions League tie against Napoli on Wednesday evening.