Reds star stresses how dearly Liverpool have missed Danny Ings

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So much has been said about potential new arrivals in this summer transfer window that few have realised just how intriguing it will be to see Danny Ings back in action.

Adam Lallana has outlined just how much Liverpool have missed the injury-stricken forward in a season in which plenty of Reds have been sidelined with Ings.

“Certain injuries hurt us. Missing Danny Ings this season was a huge blow. There were times early on in the season when he’d been training brilliantly and didn’t make the bench,” he told the Liverpool Echo.

“Then around the same time as he got his injury, a few others got hurt which would have opened the door for him. There have been a number of games this season where you think: ‘If only we had Danny Ings fit and available, running the channels, busting a gut and getting his goals.’ Having him back for pre-season will be like a new signing.”

“A bit of extra competition never hurt anyone. I think it will improve all of us. No disrespect, but strength in depth this season has possibly been an area which can be improved on.”

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Ings has been devastatingly unlucky with injuries having been out since October after suffering ligament damage to his right knee in an EFL Cup win over Tottenham. This posed as yet another setback after he had already missed much of the previous season with a similar injury to his left knee.

He has been restricted to only 11 appearances for the Reds since signing from Burnley in 2015 but appears to be on track to be fit in time to play a part next season.

The torrid spell he has endured is something that will undoubtedly spare him an opportunity to prove himself to Jurgen Klopp, who has seen very little from the striker and will be keen to give him a chance.

Liverpool could well have benefited from Ings being available this year with Lallana rightly pointing out a costly lack of strength in depth. Supporters are desperate to see the 24-year-old stay fit and find some form at Anfield. Let’s hope next season will see him do just that.

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