Sturridge Remains Unavailable

This morning, Jürgen Klopp poured cold water on the idea that Daniel Sturridge would be available for selection against Everton. Then he grabbed another bucket and showered more icy water onto the very idea that Sturridge was even participating in proper first-team training. The England striker has been out of action with a hip injury and while having the potential of a once-devastating goal scorer to call off the bench in a derby sounds great, this weekend is a bridge too far for Daniel Sturridge.

“No chance.” said Klopp when asked if Sturridge would be included at all in the squad to face the Blues.

The manager also seemed perplexed at the notion that Liverpool’s no. 15 was even training properly as was being reported yesterday.

“I heard he’s back in training,” Klopp said, bemused. “I don’t know who gave this information.

“When a player is on the pitch with a rehab coach, that’s not back to training.”

Small quibbles. On the upside, Klopp spoke positively about Sturridge’s standing in the great race for hip healing and all signs point to a solid finish. Sometime, at least. In the near future. Hopefully.

“That’s the situation in this moment. He’s in a good way, but no chance for the weekend.”

With only eight more games remaining in the Premier League, Sturridge is up against the clock to feature again for the Reds. Ever, maybe. Transfers loom. Sad supporters wave goodbye. Give us one last hurrah, Danny. Before summer calls.