Liverpool's medical team have launched an investigation into Daniel Sturridge's fitness following a number of injury woes.
The 25-year-old has not played for the Reds since August after suffering thigh and calf problems in training sessions over the last few months.
Sturridge's latest blow to his left thigh, which he has damaged nine times throughout his career, is expected to keep him out of action for around six weeks.
"I think that's his ninth injury on that thigh from previous clubs and here," the Daily Star quotes manager Brendan Rodgers as saying. "So there is an issue there somewhere.
"This shows a slight tear just below where he had a previous injury. It's something that the medical team are looking into."
Liverpool have won just two league games out of the eight that Sturridge has missed.
