Klopp backs ‘outstanding’ Sturridge to improve

The 26-year-old looked laboured rather than luminary at Turf Moor on Saturday, but the Reds boss believes he’ll soon be a nightmare for opposition defences again

Jurgen Klopp does not harbour any concerns over Daniel Sturridge’s speed or quality following multiple injury setbacks, and is convinced the Liverpool striker just needs rhythm to return to his dangerous best.

The England international was not involved in the 4-3 away victory over Arsenal due to a hip niggle, and failed to display his trademark dynamism in the 2-0 defeat at Burnley on Saturday.

He started on the right of the attack, before drifting too deep in search of the ball at Turf Moor and was unable to trouble the hosts’ backline with penetrating runs.

Sturridge, who has managed just 26 Premier League appearances in two seasons, looked laboured rather than luminary as he continues building up his permanence.

Klopp believes as soon as the forward gets back in full flow both physically and mentally, he’ll be a nightmare for opposition defences again.

“Daniel is still a quick player, there’s no doubt about it. There were a lot of injuries for him in the last few years – a few muscle issues,” said the Reds boss.

“I have no idea exactly how this changes the mind of a player, but when you’ve never had an injury, it’s maybe the best thing as you never think about it.

“He is still on the way back [to full sharpness], but is still an outstanding player. Even an outstanding player needs rhythm.

“What we could see on Saturday, for example, was for sure not the best game of Daniel Sturridge since he played football but, even in a game like this, he could have scored – that’s another part of the truth.

“I don’t compare him with the younger Daniel Sturridge, if you like. He is a really good player with all you need when he is fit.”

Klopp also cited rhythm as a necessity for striker Divock Origi, who needs to “use the right skill in the right moment.”