Little has been disclosed with regards to the future of Daniel Sturridge of late with a decision seemingly yet to have been made on what comes next for the striker.
A rejuvenated Sturridge and impressive performances in the club’s final two games of the 2016/2017 Premier League season represented a strong finish as far as Liverpool fans have been concerned.
While there remains a mutual wish amongst supporters to see Sturridge stay at Anfield this summer, there is also an acceptance of the fact his departure is a possibility.
Though Sturridge’s future remains uncertain, the Reds aren’t actively looking to offload him nor has the player himself expressed a desire to leave, claims the Liverpool Echo’s James Pearce.
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The fast-approaching 2018 FIFA World Cup could prove to be a key factor in Sturridge’s decision-making given his inevitable wish to compete with his country in Russia.
As it stands, though, he is preparing to spend pre-season with Liverpool and thereby preparing for next season as a Liverpool player. The club doesn’t need the money which is why it can’t hurt to keep a man of Sturridge’s talent, regardless of his fitness concerns.
His role in decisive wins against West Ham and Middlsebrough at the end of the last season reminded all of not only his place as one of Jurgen Klopp’s elite players but as an experienced member of the squad capable of making an impact in pressure situations.
The £40million price-tag Liverpool have put on Sturridge serves as a demonstration of just how difficult it is for the club to consider letting a player of his calibre, goal-scoring prowess and game-changing qualities leave, even despite his injury problems.
A record of 60 goals in 119 appearances is seriously impressive for a player that has endured three injury-plagued campaigns since his 24-goal 2013/2014 season. It is also a record that he could have reached far sooner, were it not for his continuous setbacks.
There’s no doubt about it- Reds want him to stay. It will be interesting to see whether any offers come in for him between now and the Premier League restart.