Liverpool news: Daniel Sturridge faces race to be fit for Merseyside derby

Sturridge has not started a single Premier League match for the Reds in December since he joined

Sturridge has struggled to hold down a regular place in Klopp's side this season (Getty)

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has been ruled out for the club’s next two games with a calf injury and faces a race to be fit in time for the Merseyside derby with Everton.

Sturridge has been struggling with the problem and has not featured for the Reds since a 12-minute cameo in the goalless draw with Southampton on November 19.

No timescale has been put on the 27-year-old’s return by Jurgen Klopp although the Liverpool manager confirmed the player has resumed work on grass again.

Sturridge has frequently struggled in December and has not started a single Premier League match for the Reds in the month since he joined in January 2013.

The England international’s last start in the month came for Chelsea on New Year's Eve 2011 against Aston Villa.

“I have no idea,” Klopp said, when asked about Sturridge’s likely return date. “Until now he didn't train. He wasn't 100 per cent yesterday but he will be on the pitch today but that means starting the work.

“He won't be with the team. I have no idea when he will be back. What can you do? Nothing. Wait. That is my job.

“He is not in training with the team at the moment so we don't have to think about him for the team with West Ham and Middlesbrough but maybe then. What's the game after Middlesbrough? Everton? Oh!”

Sturridge’s latest setback is his 22nd different injury since his £12m switch from Chelsea.

He has made just 11 appearances this season, six as substitute, and his only goals have come in the EFL Cup with two apiece against Burton and Tottenham.

Klopp revealed that Sturridge was “not happy” but both he and the player must accept the hand they have been dealt.

“That is the life of football. You cannot force things like this,” added the German.

“It is not important what the name of the player or the quality of the player you have to wait until they are back.

“Sometimes you have to wait a little bit longer because you decide then what we had in the past (was better). A few days training would be nice before we start them again.

“Of course it is not perfect in our situation with Phil (Coutinho) and Danny.

“I can't make pressure with making timelines. Hopefully he will be back as quick as possible but at this moment I have no idea.”