The striker has been linked with leaving Liverpool recently, but the Reds legend is adamant that that should not happen.
John Barnes has told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast on talkSPORT (broadcast on November 15th) that Liverpool should not allow Daniel Sturridge to leave Anfield after reports suggested that such a deal could be on the cards.
The Daily Mirror reported that the England international was frustrated with life on Merseyside, and may be prepared to move on during the January transfer window after falling out of favour under Jurgen Klopp.
Daniel Sturridge scores the second goal for Liverpool
But Barnes has insisted that Liverpool would be making a considerable mistake if they allowed Sturridge to leave given the talent he possesses.
“I don’t think it should happen,” he told talkSPORT when asked about the possibility of letting Sturridge go.
“Obviously, we know what a quality player Daniel is. He’s had his injury problems and his injury concerns in the last couple of years.
“Liverpool are playing well at the moment and Jurgen Klopp feels that the 11 he has out there are the right people for the job but I believe long-term Daniel Sturridge will be the next number nine for England and also for Liverpool if he stays.”
Though Sturridge has struggled this season, his strike-rate since joining the Reds is still hugely impressive, especially if he is now considered to be a third choice behind Roberto Firmino and Divock Origi.
And with the Mirror also reporting that West Ham and Stoke City are among the clubs interested in offering him a way out of Anfield during the winter, Liverpool should arguably be further put off a potential deal as there will always be the possibility that he could come back to haunt them in future.
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