The pre-season period is a great way of testing out players who don’t regularly feature in the first team. Youth players are usually those who benefit. However, for Liverpool this year some encouraging performances have led to debate about Daniel Sturridge’s Anfield future.
The Future of Daniel Sturridge at Liverpool
Immediate Impact
The striker joined the Merseyside outfit midway through the 2012/13 season for £15 million from Chelsea. He scored an impressive 11 goals in only 16 games during the remainder of the season. It was his form in the following season, however, which gave the Englishman such an impressive reputation. Forming an explosive partnership with Luis Suarez, Sturridge scored 21 goals in the Premier League, showcasing his exceptional eye for goal. This was the foundation that allowed Sturridge to play (and score) at the 2014 World cup for England. The future seemed bright for Sturridge at club and international level. All that was to change.
Fitness Fiasco
It seemed like the only way was up for Sturridge, but injuries brought him crashing back down. Throughout the next few seasons, Sturridge never gained a sustained period of game time, occasionally showing glimpses of his talent (such as his goal in the Europa League final). A number of different injuries causing him to spend more time in the medical room than on the pitch. He missed 481 days through injury between September 2014 and January 2018. To many Liverpool and football fans in general, Sturridge became notorious for his injury woes, leading many to question his future at Liverpool. Indeed, this culminated in an unsuccessful loan spell at West Brom at the tail end of last season. It seemed like Sturridge’s injuries had signalled the end of his Liverpool career.
Resurgent Return
This pre-season has highlighted Sturridge’s talent once more, giving Jurgen Klopp a welcome headache when it comes to his striker selection. Having scored against Chester and Blackburn as well as forming an exciting link-up with new midfielder Naby Keita, Sturridge has definitely forced his way into consideration. Klopp has said of Sturridge ”he is an outstanding player when he is fit”, highlighting his confidence in the28-year-old.
Sturridge also seems to be happy, saying in an interview that “I’m enjoying myself and enjoying my football”. Sturridge will have to seriously impress in order to replace Roberto Firmino in the starting 11. Even if he doesn’t, however, he is proving himself to be more than capable as a backup.
As Liverpool look to push on and win silverware both domestically and in Europe, depth will be key. Providing he stays fit, don’t be shocked to see Sturridge banging in the goals once again. He could be a vital player for Liverpool in the coming season as they compete in four competitions. Sturridge and his iconic dance might be back; defences across the globe, beware.
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