Jurgen Klopp’s press-conference today, reported in the Echo, was typically jovial – but he made some very interesting and important claims about Daniel Sturridge.
The striker missed last night’s fixture with Bordeaux, claiming pain in his foot, going to a Liverpool hospital for a scan. Supporters were infuriated, but it seems as though the manager is a little disappointed as well.
“I cannot think of this like you because I have not been here that long,” he began.
“But I understand. His body had to adapt to the new intensity of training and learn what is serious pain and what is only pain. Everyone wants him back on the pitch but we all have to learn. Training for him was intensive. But we have to stay patient. I am sorry for you, sorry for me, sorry for him.”
Thankfully though, if we can even say that anymore, Sturridge’s foot problem doesn’t appear serious, as Klopp didn’t rule him out of playing at the weekend against Swansea.
“All the players from yesterday are in good shape. Does Daniel have a chance for Sunday? I don’t know. But five weeks in a row without playing means he needs matches,” he said.
The forward hasn’t played under Klopp of course, and has only completed one 90 minute game all season. In Klopp’s conference, he went on to salute Jordan Henderson for demanding playing time – which in itself – could be construed as a thinly veiled attack at Sturridge.
“Henderson is always (knocking) on the door, wanting to play. But he needs to be perfect physically. When in that shape we can use him,” he continued.
“For a player like him, with his history with injury, he’s always on the door. I like this.”
It would not be difficult to interpret Klopp’s quotes as a cry for Sturridge to accept knocks in training and make himself available for selection.