Liverpool could have an ace up their sleeves as Daniel Sturridge returns to full training, ahead of the Merseyside derby on Saturday.
This is Anfield reports that Sturridge, who is often injured, participated in full first-team training today. This is just the first time in five weeks that Sturridge has trained with the first-team. Klopp hopes that he will be available and able to contribute in the 228th Merseyside derby against Everton.
If It’s Not One Thing It’s Another
Sturridge has been plagued by bad luck for a while now. First, he came down with a virus and then was sidelined by a hip injury. This has caused him to miss the past two months of first-team action. It is a joy to see him back in on the training fields, even though he has not been great this season.
Daniel Sturridge returned to Liverpool training today.
— Coral (@Coral) March 30, 2017
Reports surfacing that he's out for 3 months with two broken thumbs after this photo pic.twitter.com/FUwEuGjDIn
This season, in the Premier League, Sturridge has made just 14 appearances, scoring 2 goals, earning him a Squawka rating of 198; which isn’t good at all. Sturridge has looked apathetic and at times aloof on the pitch. Klopp has almost exclusively used Sturridge as a late-match striking substitute.
Sturridge’s last match was on February 4 in Liverpool’s 2-0 loss to Hull City. He played only 24 minutes and was largely ineffective.
Liverpool Attack
Over the past two months Liverpool have been able to score goals without Daniel Sturridge. The likes of Sadio Mane, Georginio Wijnaldum, Philippe Coutinho, Emre Can, James Milner, and Roberto Firmino have scored 9 goals. Leading the Reds to 3-1-1 record in the Premier League.
Sturridge over the past two years has been a great option for Liverpool in the attack. Klopp may choose an unorthodox squad and include Sturridge in Saturday’s derby. Klopp’s hands are tied somewhat, due to a still recovering Jordan Henderson and a newly injured Adam Lallana.
Liverpool took the first leg of the Merseyside derby and will be looking to draw or win on Saturday. It is vital that the Reds not drop points and continue to remain in one of those Champions League spots, at the top of the table.
Next: Liverpool Are Hopeful to Extend Lovren Long-Term
All statistics provided by Squawka.com