Klopp: Sturridge must learn what serious pain is

Matt Stead

Jurgen Klopp says Daniel Sturridge must “adapt” to Liverpool’s new intensity, and distinguish between “serious pain” and “only pain”.

After stepping up his recovery from a knee injury which had ruled him out since the start of October, Sturridge picked up a knock to his foot in training, ruling him out of Thursday’s Europa League clash with Bordeaux.

The 26-year-old has now suffered eight separate injuries since joining Liverpool in January 2013, and some Reds fans believe the club should sell the striker rather than persist with such an injury-prone player.

Klopp believes Sturridge must “adapt” to a new, more intense way of training.

Asked whether he has long-term concerns over Sturridge’s fitness, Klopp replied: “I cannot think of this like you because I have not been here that long. But I understand.

“His body had to adapt to the new intensity of training and learn what is serious pain and what is only pain.

“Everyone wants him back on the pitch but we all have to learn. Training for him was intensive. But we have to stay patient. I am sorry for you, sorry for me, sorry for him.

“All the players from yesterday are in good shape. Does Daniel have a chance for Sunday? I don’t know. But five weeks in a row without playing means he needs matches.”

Klopp also revealed that midfield pair Jordan Henderson – who has been out of action since August – and Jordan Rossiter have returned to training, while Joe Allen is likely to start against former club Swansea on Sunday.

On captain Henderson, Klopp added: “He wants to play but we have to wait. We’ll see every day how he adapts to the intensity of the previous day.”