Daniel Sturridge has thanked manager Brendan Rodgers for handing him his first Liverpool start in the FA Cup third-round tie against Mansfield on Sunday.
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The striker, who joined the Merseyside outfit from Chelsea for £12 million, had not played a minute's football since mid-November and was delighted to go straight into the starting eleven for his first match.
"It was enjoyable. It was good to get to know my team-mates and great for fitness. It's the perfect start for me to score on my debut," he told the Liverpool Echo.
"I was quite tired out there as I haven't been playing or training much over the last few months. But I'm grateful to the boss for giving me nearly 60 minutes."
The 23-year-old opened his account for his new club within the first eight minutes of the match, but missed a few opportunities to add to his tally.
"I haven't had much training. I've only had three sessions with the lads and then a light session on Saturday before the game," he added.
"I am lacking sharpness in front of goal. I missed a few chances but hopefully once I get my fitness those ones that I missed will go in.
"It was a great pass from Jonjo (Shelvey) - the vision and the weight of the pass for the goal was perfect. He made it quite easy for me to take the shot first time.
"We haven't had much time to work on stuff but we were both on the same wavelength. We get on well on and off the field.
"All the lads have been great with me and they've made it easy for me to settle in over the past few days.
"I want to say thank you to them for making me feel so welcome. I look forward to playing with them for many years to come."
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