The England striker was left on the bench against Dortmund
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has insisted he has no doubt about the quality of striker Daniel Sturridge.
The 48-year-old left Sturridge out of the starting line-up, when his Reds’ side faced Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League on Thursday, selecting Divock Origi in his place.
It has led to speculation that the former Manchester City and Chelsea striker is no longer considered the Reds’ first choice up front, since Luis Suarez left for Barcelona in 2014.
And Origi repaid the faith Klopp showed in him, by netting the opener in Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against the German’s former club.
“I am not interested in the things [the media] think.” said Klopp
“I make decisions that are not made on who, was, when. How could I? I have no doubt as to the quality of Daniel Sturridge.
“Daniel is doing really well and had no problem when he saw he would not start [against Dortmund]. He came in and did his job. We have to leave him to work, and when is on the pitch, give all he has.”
Anfield duo
Klopp has even suggested that Origi and Sturridge, who have both scored eight goals each this season – adding to that tally in their 4-1 win over Stoke City Anfield, with three between them – could play together if needed.
“I don’t think there is a challenge between them,” Klopp added.
“They have to be in the best shape and it’s very likely they can play together.
“Divock and Dan played together at Southampton, it was not bad.
“You need more than one striker and, if all are fit, which is not the case most of the time, you have to make decisions.
“We have to think what’s best for the team and, the more players we have available, the better it is.”
Sturridge has started to establish himself in the Liverpool side again, after another frustrating season that has been hampered by injury.
Meanwhile, Origi is starting to show the Anfield faithful what he is capable of, and looks to be a big part of the Reds’ future, under Jurgen Klopp.
