Ahead of their game against Liverpool, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic believes “all clubs” would like to sign “big talent” Daniel Sturridge
The Liverpool and England striker is on the sidelines with a calf injury and could be out until the end of the year.
But Hammers manager Bilic says that most clubs in the league would want a player with Sturridge’s talent on their books.
“He’s one of the biggest talents, he’s a great player,” praised the Croatian.
“The talent is there, the touch, the finishing, everything is great. The only thing that’s stopped him being regular for club and country are the injuries.”
The East London club have struggled to find the net and have scored 20 goals less than Liverpool so far this season, with only two of these coming from strikers.
As a result Bilic’s side have been linked with a number of forwards including Sturridge who has been unable to secure a regular starting place in the Liverpool team even when fit.
“He’s just a player that has been linked with us, basically, and we’ve been linked with almost every player,” added Bilic.
“We’re always there in contention. Most of the time it’s absolutely not true, 95% of the time. But you’re asking me about Sturridge and I have no problem about that.
“All the clubs are thinking about him because he is that kind of player.
“I don’t know his work rate, I don’t know his dedication to his job or whatever, but unfortunately for England and for Liverpool, and especially for him, he’s injured. That’s his problem.”
In a This is Anfield exclusive, former Liverpool striker Milan Baros has urged Sturridge to remain at Anfield despite his problems.
The Czech forward believes he made a mistake leaving the club when there was competition up front, and has encouraged the England forward to stay and fight for his place.
“He needs to be patient. I’ve read about him being linked with a move away but there aren’t many clubs bigger than Liverpool.
“They’ve got some injuries now so if he gets fit and stays fit, the chance will come for him.”
Sturridge will hope to be back in time for the Merseyside Derby against Everton on the 19th of December.
His involvement during the busy Christmas and new year period could be vital, but Jurgen Klopp has conceded that he can’t put a date on his player’s return.
“No real idea, until now he didn’t train,” said the manager.
“[We can do] nothing. Wait. That’s my job. He’s not happy. It’s the life of a footballer. You cannot force things like this, ever.
“You have to wait until they’re back, then sometimes you have to wait a little longer.”
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