The forward, who scored a hat-trick against Fulham, learned a lot from playing alongside the Ivorian and believes he is benefiting from regular game time with the Anfield outfit

Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge says he is keen to replicate the mental strength displayed by Didier Drogba during his time at Chelsea.

Following his arrival at Anfield from Stamford Bridge in January, the 23-year-old has scored 11 goals in 15 appearances for Brendan Rodgers’ side, which includes six goals in his last six matches.

Sturridge claims his ability enhanced under the tutelage of Drogba and believes mental strength is key to becoming one of the best players in the world.

“Being strong mentally is the one thing that can separate you from anyone else,” Sturridge told the club’s official website.

“When I worked with Drogba at Chelsea, the one strength he had above everybody was his mental strength.

“I learned a lot from working with him about what it takes to be a top player. Hopefully I’ll become one.”

Sturridge netted a hat-trick to secure a 3-1 win over Fulham on Sunday and the striker believes he is benefiting from playing regularly, unlike at Chelsea.

“It’s a fantastic feeling to score a hat-trick. Hopefully I’ll have a long career ahead of me with Liverpool,” said Sturridge.

“I am a lot more peaceful and I’m playing with a clear mind.

“Before there were a lot of things going on and mentally it was hard for me. It’s difficult when you do well and then don’t play the next game as you feel ‘what more can I do?'”