Jason McAteer suggests £40m Liverpool star should leave; explains perfect destination

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Renewed optimism surrounding Daniel Sturridge hasn’t been enough to convince former Red Jason McAteer that the striker’s future is at Liverpool.

Sturridge’s strong finish to the 2016/2017 season proved to be a refreshing yet frustrating reminder of his undeniable talent and sparked a mutual u-turn from fans that had previously accepted his proposed summer departure.

Regular first-team football seems a priority for the forward having endured three injury-plagued seasons at Anfield since his standout 2013/2014 campaign, in which he scored 24 goals in all competitions.

Despite the belief that Sturridge is ready to rediscover his top form, McAteer believes it is time for him to move on for the benefit of his career.

“I think it will be good for Daniel to get away. There’s no doubt he has quality and is a fantastic player, who is still only 27, but he just doesn’t play enough,” McAteer told the Mirror.

“He finished the season playing the last four games, made a good contribution and now everyone wants him to stay. But the best solution would be a move – it’s got to that point.”

“I think people get sick of the conversation about why he isn’t playing. It’s the constant intrigue of whether it’s down to Daniel not feeling he’s 100 per cent right or Klopp making tactical decisions based on opponents.”

“I’ve heard West Ham want to sign him. But my personal opinion is that Daniel would thrive at somewhere like PSG. Playing with superstars like Edinson Cavani and Angel Di Maria would suit his game. In France, he would also be out of the constant spotlight.”

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Sturridge’s calm finish against West Ham in Liverpool’s penultimate game of the Premier League season was his 60th for the club- a tally he would have reached far sooner had it not been for constant disruptions.

A struggle to stay fit has cruelly hampered a player with the goal-scoring prowess and natural ability capable of making him one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.

It’s the knowledge of his ability that is making it so difficult for supporters to accept suggestions that his future lies elsewhere.

Time will tell.

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