Daniel Sturridge only has to look towards the inspiration of legends like Robert Lewandowski and even Gerd Muller to rediscover his world-class form.
That is the message from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who seems to have finally developed a closer relationship with his star striker, despite a barren run of SIX months without a Premier League goal.
The impression has long been that the England striker's Anfield days are numbered under Klopp, with the German showing a preference for Roberto Firmino as his central striker with Mane and Coutinho supporting.
Yet the coach showed an emphatic faith in his forward this week to skewer that conspiracy theory somewhat, as he showed a genuine admiration for Sturridge's obvious – and sometimes outrageous – quality.
Asked if the the player was suffering from a crisis of confidence, he said with an shake of the head: “No, I didn't see it.
"After a shooting exercise there are still tears in your eyes when you see it and you are like, 'F***ing hell! That is unbelievable!'"
Yet Sturridge's last league goal was against Newcastle way back on April 23, and his current form – typified by an anonymous performance in the 0-0 draw with Manchester United – seems light years away from the one he produced against Saturday's opponents West Brom three years ago.
Back then, he produced one of the greatest goals of his career as he glided away from Youssouf Mulumbu before outrageously and instinctively chipping keeper Ben Foster.
It is interesting then, that Klopp was prepared to not only defend the striker, but show a faith in his that suggests he believes in the 26 year old's talent, and his credentials to remain at Anfield.
For Klopp, Sturridge merely has to look towards players he can match for inspiration.
Speaking about that goal against West Brom in 2013, the manager said: “Come on. If you are a striker, there will be that moment (the goal) but then hard working moments.
In pictures — Liverpool train for the visit of West Brom:
"I think, at this moment, for Dan, it is not easy. Most of his time in his life, football has been so easy because he is so skilled. The right moment, easy goal, simple goal.
“But every player struggles with this or this. Little problem here, little problem there. Daniel Sturridge is an outstanding player. There is no doubt about this.
“Even sometimes I think in moments: 'Ball… Sturridge…. Goal... Oh, no!' There are moments when you think he should score and he doesn’t, but you have to carry on.
“And I think this is a very useful moment in his career. A big name: Lewandowski. There were times when he didn’t score. Gerd Muller! There were games he didn’t score. I still can’t believe it.
“Then, it is only to handle situations like this. It is not to make a big thing about it.”
