Jurgen Klopp says Daniel Sturridge can overcome his current troubles to rediscover his best form, providing he stays fit.
Sturridge, who has been plagued by injuries in the past, has endured a difficult season so far, starting just five Premier League matches.
That performance prompted former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher to claim the Reds are "basically down to 10 men" when Sturridge plays and fails to score.
"I don't know exactly about the level of 2013-14 because I wasn't here, but that's not too important," Klopp said.
"I thought after Southampton it was a good game for Daniel. He was involved from the first second until the last.
"Usually, and it's not about speed, Daniel scores twice. But he is a human being and he missed the chances.
"Of course longer injuries can have an impact. Ask a sprinter. If you get a few injuries maybe it takes time, but it's not lost forever.
"Daniel is the best age for a football player. If he can stay fit everything will be fine."
But Klopp, who says he is unlikely to make any additions to his squad before Tuesday's transfer deadline, insists the Serbia international has a future on Merseyside.
"He still has a contract. Why should I say no chance? He's still a young boy. He has struggled with injuries," added Klopp.
"If he plays against the other teams very well then he has a chance."
