Liverpool to keep Ings despite Sunderland approach

Matt Stead

Liverpool are expected to rebuff any further approaches from Premier League clubs to sign Danny Ings on loan.

The Reds signed Ings from Burnley last summer, but a knee injury ended the striker’s season prematurely in October.

The 24-year-old returned to full fitness in time to feature in the final game of last season, but has yet to even make a matchday squad this campaign.

Roberto Firmino, Divock Origi and Daniel Sturridge are all vying for the same role as central striker under Jurgen Klopp, while Sadio Mane has also impressed after joining this summer.

This has restricted Ings’ chances, and a number of clubs have made an approach for his services.

Sunderland attempted to sign the striker on loan earlier this week, but Liverpool rejected the offer as they wish to keep Ings.

James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo writes: ‘Klopp always intended to ease Ings in gently after the cruciate ligament injury which ruled him out for most of last season.

‘Ings’ training schedule has had to be carefully managed this summer in order to avoid a setback and he’s still building up his fitness levels.’

Earlier this summer, the manager added: “We’re counting on Ingsy. He is a fantastic boy.

“He was injured since October last year and he needed time. Now he’s getting better and better.

“He know himself that in the first two or three weeks of pre-season even though he scored in the games it was too intense for him. We had to rest him a few times.”