EPL 2016-17: Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge set to miss rest of the season

What’s the story?

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is set to miss the rest of the season due to a hip injury he suffered during training prior to their recent Premier League game. It’s also expected that Sturridge will be asked to leave at the end of this season due to his persistent injury record at the club.

In case you didn’t know...

Due to the recurrence of a hip injury in training, Sturridge was benched for the clash against Crystal Palace that Liverpool eventually lost 1-2. The injury means Sturridge is likely to miss the rest of the season and could already have played his last game for the club.

Sturridge suffered a hip injury at Liverpool in the 2014-15 season, for which he was out for almost 6 months after going through a hip surgery. While the club presumed the issue was resolved, the same injury problem has resurfaced twice this season; towards the starting of the season and then more lately.

The heart of the matter

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is frustrated with the injuries and unavailability of his striker. Sadio Mane is also out of the season due to a knee injury suffered by the attacker during the Merseyside derby. It’s a tough time for Liverpool with two of their key players ruled out for the rest of the campaign.

Roberto Firmino has played as a striker in most of the games and has scored a major chunk of the goals this season along with the midfielder Philippe Coutinho.

It was anticipated that Sturridge could play a major role to get Liverpool back into the Champions League. Also, with his Liverpool future in doubt, it could have helped him in attracting potential suitors this summer transfer window but all these assumptions have hit a block.

What’s Next?

Liverpool might get rid of Sturridge in the summer transfer window. His future destination could be PSG (as they bid for him during January transfer window) or another club from Ligue 1. Sturridge’s next destination should be chosen wisely considering his injury record. A club where the style of play is less demanding would be the ideal place for the beleaguered striker.

Author’s take

With Mane out for a lengthy period due to a knee injury as well, Liverpool should target a striker who can be a good replacement for Sturridge and seamlessly fit into Klopp’s style of play.