Former Liverpool Legend Backs The Striker To Shine, If He Stays Fit

Daniel Sturridge came on to great effect in the 1-0 win over Everton at the Merseyside derby. The English striker hit the post which allowed Sadio Mane to score the only goal of the game and it provided Liverpool fans a glimpse of the quality he possesses.

The problem has been his injury record which has really affected his game time. That, coupled with Roberto Firmino’s form at the start of this season has seen Sturridge play a handful of games. The former Chelsea and Manchester City striker is also yet to score in the Premier League this season.

There have been a few rumours doing the rounds that Sturridge is on his way out of the club but former Liverpool star, John Aldridge, believes the 27-year-old will stay at the club at least till the end of the season.

Speaking to 888sport.com, the Liverpool legend said:

“If he’s happy being on the bench then something is wrong.

“He wants to play and Liverpool need him on the pitch because he’s a fantastic talent.

“We know he picks up too many injuries so the manager has to manage him and he’s doing that.”

Aldridge also believed that the only thing Sturridge requires at the moment is to get a few minutes under his belt.

“He just needs game-time now and with the Christmas period he’ll get plenty of minutes on the pitch.”

The former player also stated that Liverpool needs Sturridge in the last few months of this season as they look to make it to the top four at least. And also, provided a caveat as to how Sturridge could stay at Merseyside beyond this season.

“If they’re going for the title or top four there is just no way Sturridge will move or be allowed to in January.

“In the summer who knows? If he wants to keep his England place and get regular games it could happen then.

“But if he scores lots of goals between now and then I don’t think that will be the case.”

Sturridge going nowhere?

Sturridge certainly must be upset at his lack of playing time and has been linked with a move away from the Merseyside club next season. While Klopp has vehemently denied that any first team player would be leaving in January, West Ham have been stated as a possible destination for the English striker.

Liverpool might be tempted to sell him but they could be taking part in European competition next season and would need all the quality they can get in their side. When Sturridge is fit, there is no better striker than him in the world and keeping him in the side will bear fruit in the long run.