Why Daniel Sturridge must receive added game time at Liverpool this season
Liverpool got their season off to a rocking start by thrashing West Ham United 4-0 at Anfield. The atmosphere was electrifying as the home crowd belted out their best anthems with a newfound passion. Jurgen Klopp’s men put out an inspiring display in front of their fans, as they began their march for the title.
The Reds’ front three unsurprisingly started on the front foot and delivered in no time. Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino were all involved in the goals as Liverpool romped past Manuel Pellegrini’s men. However, the final goal of the game was scored by Daniel Sturridge, who came on as a substitute and nodded home from his first touch on the ball.
James Milner sent in a corner, teasing across the far post which Sturridge duly nodded home to wrap up a thrilling victory for the Reds. It seems like this could be the season Sturridge finally finds his feet and receives adequate playing minutes with Liverpool.
During the 2013/14 season, the former Chelsea striker netted more than 20 goals alongside Luis Suarez. Since then, however, Sturridge has been a shadow of his former self due to injuries and whatnot. The English striker has barely played any games for Jurgen Klopp over the last three seasons, often drifting in and out of the squad.
But the 28-year-old has looked confident and energetic in recent times. He was excellent during pre-season, emerging as Liverpool’s top-scorer and playing some of his best football over the years.
In the few minutes that he came on against West Ham, the Liverpool striker scored a goal and got close to registering a brace as well. He was constantly on the move and proved to be a handful for the Hammers, who didn’t display any resilience after the first three goals.
Going forward, Jurgen Klopp should hand Sturridge a regular role this season. The striker will provide ample depth and cover in the final third, thus relieving some pressure off of Firmino. If Sturridge can maintain and improve his fitness, he would surely prove to be a massive asset for the Reds this season.
