Daniel Sturridge is expected to be fit in time for West Bromwich Albion’s visit to Vicarage Road.

The relegation-threatened Baggies take on the Hornets on March 3 in what is likely to be a key clash in both sides’ ongoing battle against the drop.

Sturridge, a January loan signing from Liverpool, has been plagued by injuries throughout his career and lasted just four minutes of last night’s 3-0 defeat to Chelsea.

West Brom boss Alan Pardew expects the England international to be unavailable for his side’s FA Cup clash with Southampton, but hopes he will return in time in time for the Watford match.

“We need him up and running as it is goals we have struggled with,” Pardew said.

“He felt his hamstring after a 60 metre sprint in the first few moments of the game. We’ll have to nurse him. He won’t play next week but hopefully the week after.”

Defeat against the champions left West Brom seven points from safety. They face Huddersfield at home before arriving at Vicarage Road the following weekend.

The game comes on the back of Watford entertaining Everton, in what could be a crucial two-week spell as Javi Gracia’s side look to secure their top flight status for another season.