Sources are reporting that Daniel Sturridge is set to leave Liverpool in the summer. The striker, who formed a deadly SAS strike partnership with Luis Suarez, has fallen out of favour as he struggles to get a run of form and fitness together.
Sturridge scored 21 goals in 29 league appearances during his breakout 2013/14 season, but has recently seen his career slow down due to a number of reoccurring injuries. As a result he has netted just twice in his 13 Premier League matches this season. This lack of form has led to a fall down the pecking order where he currently resides behind youngster Divock Origi and Roberto Firmino who, even with his goal scoring ability, is not a natural striker.
Despite his recent form, Sturridge has received backing from Liverpool legend, Ian Rush. While speaking at a local event, Rush called Sturridge “probably the most gifted striker we have got.” He then went on to talk about how vital the striker is the Reds Champions League hopes. “One thing for certain this year is that we will need Daniel Sturridge and once he gets that chance he has to take it. And when he does take it and starts scoring again I think he’ll play a major part in Liverpool making the top four.”
While Liverpool has a strong starting XI, an area where they lack is squad depth. This weakness can lead to difficulties during fixture heavy periods, such as Christmas and the New Year. Looking forward, holding onto players of Sturridge’s calibre will be important in order to avoid such drops in form next season.
talkSPORT are reporting a busy summer and that the owners believe “five or six high-profile players” could be on their way to Anfield. This will come as welcome news for the Liverpool faithful, as they were left disheartened after a severe lack of business throughout the recent window.
Whether or not Sturridge will leave is still an ongoing mystery, but a top 4 finish and a lot of expenditures during the summer is what Klopp needs to accomplish, if he wants to get back into the good books of the Liverpool fans.