“Sturridge is re-born with the Reds”

Daniel Sturridge is a player with his “hunger back”, according to former Liverpool man John Aldridge.

The striker came off the bench in the 87th minute as a substitute for Mohamed Salah and scored less than a minute later with his first touch of the ball, breaking out his trademark celebratory dance for the first time in months.

And Aldridge believes it’s a clear sign that Sturridge has been “re-born with the Reds” after enjoying a successful pre-season, during which he was on the mark more often than not. Writing for the Echo, Aldridge highlights the significance of Sturridge getting back on the goal trail:

“You get the impression that Sturridge simply has his hunger back at Anfield this season after what was a disappointing year for him personally.

“He went away from Anfield in an attempt to rescue his World Cup dream with England and once again suffered injuries during his loan spell with West Brom.

“He barely got on the pitch at Albion and ended up playing for a team who were relegated from the Premier League.

“He then watched on as England went all the way to the World Cup semi-final without him and that must have been tough to take.”

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Daniel Sturridge of Liverpool celebrates after scoring in the Premier League match between Liverpool and West Ham at Anfield on August 12, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Getty Images)

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Aldridge reveled in seeing the Reds’ number fifteen get back to his “fit and firing” best, but noted that we haven’t seen him at that level enough during Klopp’s time as manager. Sturridge can, however, become a great option for Liverpool off the bench this season as backup to first-choice Roberto Firmino, and is now well ahead of fellow strikers Dominic Solanke and Divock Origi.

“The big task for Sturridge now is to stay fit and stay contributing when called upon”, Aldridge finished, “because although he will be a back-up to Firmino, he will certainly have a part to play.”

“A fully-fit Sturridge offers a completely different dimension to Klopp’s attack.”

Liverpool’s next fixture sees them face Crystal Palace away on Monday 20th August.

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Source: anfieldhq.com