Sturridge can be the difference for Liverpool and Lallana believes he’s world class
In the lead-up to Bordeaux last week, many Liverpool fans were bemoaning Daniel Sturridge’s most recent injury and apparent mental weakness. It looked even more bleak when even Jurgen Klopp appeared to be questioning whether Sturridge knew the difference between pain and severe pain.
But whatever mind-games Klopp was playing with Sturridge clearly worked, as the striker was fit enough to have a brief cameo at home to Swansea on Sunday and managed a whole hour against Southampton last night.
Not only that, but Dan showed the fans questioning him and those that believed he was finished as a Liverpool player exactly why he is one of the few players you simply have to persevere with through injury as he scored two wonderful, world class goals and turned the tie on its head.
And team mate and fellow England international, Adam Lallana, has spoken about why Sturridge is still so important to Liverpool. Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Lallana said: “It was [incredible], especially after the start we had. It was sloppy – they started the game well but I think we started on the back foot.
“But it was a great response from the lads, Studge has scored two very important goals tonight.
“He showed exactly what he’s about and why we want him back and in the team.
“He’s massive for us, he’s a world class player. Within ten minutes he finished two brilliant chances and we’re in the lead after a sloppy start.
“I think everyone worked hard to change the game because it was a disappointing start.
“Divock was brilliant again, he took his chances, and it was a great result and we’re in the semis now.”
The Reds slowly clawed their way back into the game and ended up absolutely hammering Southampton but if Sturridge hadn’t managed to turn the tie around the way he did, there’s no way of knowing whether things would’ve turned out the same way.
With Newcastle away coming up on Sunday, a game in which Sturridge and Coutinho truly announced themselves at Liverpool a few years ago, the stage is set for the striker to continue his form from St Mary’s last night and go on to have a spectacular season.
