Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has revealed that he is happy to be back in the team after spending six weeks out with ankle ligament damage.

Sturridge returned to the side on Sunday when he came off the bench to score during the Reds' 5-3 win at Stoke City in the Premier League.

"Being out of the fold has been very hard for me mentally, but it's also good that we've been getting results and working very hard as a team," the England international told the Liverpool Echo.

"It's very hard when you're on the side, watching a team, and you want to be involved in the fun and be out there.

"I'm just happy that we're up there within touching distance and we're in the top four. It's great to be a part of it."

Liverpool continue their Premier League campaign on Saturday when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield.