Share

Klopp won't rush Sturridge back into action

London - Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said on Wednesday he will not rush injury-prone striker Daniel Sturridge back into first-team action until the England international can prove he is more "robust".

Sturridge, 26, was on the bench for Saturday's 4-1 demolition of erstwhile Premier League leaders Manchester City, the first time he has featured in a matchday squad following Klopp's arrival.

However, the German said that is no guarantee Sturridge will get a run-out in Thursday's Europa League tie at home to Bordeaux, with Klopp stressing the striker needs to be able to prove he won't suffer any more injury breakdowns.

Sturridge, who netted 21 goals during the 2013-14 campaign as Liverpool finished runners-up to City, made just seven league starts last season as he was sidelined by thigh and calf problems before undergoing a hip operation in May.

"Daniel is coming closer and closer so he can train now seven or eight times in a row - that is the longest period since I've been here - and that will help him and in the end help us," Klopp said.

"My decision you will see (on Thursday) but it is closer and that is very good.

"The most important thing in these weeks is he can train without problems.

"We have to try to bring in a situation where he is more robust.

"If he is feeling in a good moment maybe a few minutes - or more - we will see in the game."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE