Sky Sports pundit Phil Thompson suggests Daniel Sturridge should leave Liverpool
Sky Sports pundit and Liverpool legend Phil Thompson says that Daniel Sturridge should leave Anfield in January to boost his chances of making the World cup squad.
The 28-year-old has started just four Premier League games this season, and has voiced his frustration of not getting regular games under Jurgen Klopp.
He has not started in any of Liverpool’s Champions League games, and has been an unused substitute in their last two games.
Gareth Southgate, the England manager, didn’t pick him for friendlies against Germany and Brazil. Instead, his club teammate Dominic Solanke was preferred.
Thompson said that that could be Sturridge’s last World Cup, and he needs to play regularly in order to boost his chances of getting back into the England squad.
“As a Liverpool fan, I want to see our squad remain together because it isn’t that big as it is and he does enhance it. However, on a personal side, having been a player, I’d be worried his chance is passing him by,” said Thompson to Sky Sports.
“This could maybe be his last World Cup, and when you look at the players who are in that squad, he can still have a major say if he can get back in there. He must be thinking he could play a part this summer.
“I think he’ll want to play more regularly and look at his options in January. He’ll look at someone like Jermain Defoe and think there is hope that he can leave and get back into the squad.”
Klopp prefers Roberto Firmino as his first choice striker, and Sturridge will have to content with limited opportunities.
While Klopp will not be keen to lose any of his players, he cannot guarantee Sturridge regular games. A move away from Anfield would be wise for him at this stage of his career.
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