Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has credited former teammates Dietmar Hamann, Deco and Paul Merson for inspiring his sensational strike in the Europa League final against Sevilla.

The 26-year-old scored from the edge of the box with the outside of his foot to give the Reds a 1-0 lead in the final they eventually lost 3-1 in Basel.

It was a stunning strike from Sturridge and he has paid homage to some of his past colleagues for assisting him hone the craft.

He told the Daily Mirror: "I've played with players I've learnt that from — also Didi Hamann was very big with the outside of his foot.

"There was Deco, was who was very good with the outside of his foot. Paul Merson was top drawer with the outside of his foot too.

"So there are a lot of people who can you see doing it and try to pick things up.

"I'm always learning and trying to improve."

Sturridge played with Hamann at Manchester City, was involved at Chelsea with Deco and spent time with Aston Villa's academy during Merson's spell in the Midlands.