Liverpool’s fresh Sturridge blow gives Man Utd odds more pull
Published:It’s the worst news for Liverpool fan’s to wake up to, as just when they thought their most prolific striker was back in the fold after a lengthy lay-off; Daniel Sturridge has been ruled out for a further month.
Sturridge was unable to feature in any of Liverpool’s September fixtures after straining a thigh and the Reds subsequently went onto to pick up a paltry point from nine available.
Despite a narrow win over West Brom ahead of the international break, everyone in the Red half of Merseyside were pinning their hopes on seeing Sturridge back playing again to help piece together a much-needed run of results.
As it stands, Liverpool are already nine points off the rapid pace being set by league leaders Chelsea, which has seen the title contenders of last season, thrown out to 40/1 long shots to clinch the league crown.
Ominously, although Brendan Rodgers’ side are only a further point shy of the current top-four marker, it’s the identity of the team occupying it which will create fear among Reds fans.
A resurgent Manchester United side blessed with fresh stocks of world class attacking talent currently sit fourth and if Chelsea and Manchester City are untouchable at the top, Liverpool’s fight to make the top four is set to be a very tough one.
If you consider Arsenal’s ever-presence in the Champions League spots under Arsene Wenger, suddenly this latest blow for Liverpool takes on an even graver look.
Many punters would now feel more comfortable backing United at 8/15 to get back into the hallowed berths ahead of Liverpool at 10/11.
Of course, the Reds are not solely reliant on Sturridge, but considering the trio of other strikers available to Rodgers of Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert and Fabio Borini are yet to register a league goal, these are anxious times at Anfield.
Sturridge scored 21 times in the Premier League last season, only bettered overall by teammate Luis Suarez.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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