Raheem Sterling believes Liverpool's season will spark into life once Daniel Sturridge has returned from injury.
England striker Sturridge scored 21 Premier League goals as the Reds finished runners-up to Manchester City last season.
But he has not played for the club since the end of August because of thigh and calf problems -- and Liverpool have won only two of their eight league games without him.
The Merseysiders are hopeful that Sturridge, 25, will be fit for their next match, away to Crystal Palace on Nov. 23, as they look to salvage a campaign that is already in danger of falling apart.
Saturday's 2-1 home defeat to leaders Chelsea saw Brendan Rodgers' side drop into the bottom half of the table.
The manager admitted before the game that his job would be under threat if form did not improve, but England winger Sterling thinks Sturridge's return will provide the inspiration they need.
The 19-year-old told the Liverpool Echo: "It will be a massive boost to have Daniel back playing.
"We have missed him, and the more quality players you have fit and available the better.
"He gives us that threat in the box and he scores goals. We're all really looking forward to having him back in the team.
"After a defeat you usually want the next game to come along fast, but I think having this [international] break now can help us.
"We need to get going and start winning games to turn this around. Losing hurts, especially losing a big game at home.
"Every team goes through sticky patches, but I'm sure we'll start climbing the table soon."