Former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey has leapt to the defence of under pressure striker Daniel Sturridge by urging Jurgen Klopp to keep persisting to get the best out of the England international, as reported byFourFourTwo.
The 27-year-old has failed to find the net in his seven Premier League appearances this season and was substitutedafter just 60 minutes by Klopp in the dire 0-0 draw with bitter rivals Manchester United.
His form so far this season has led to a number of media outlets questioning whether the former Chelsea star is a suitable option for Klopp's high intensity and relentless pressing way of playing.
But Heskey, who made 223 appearances for Liverpool between 1999 and 2004, insists Sturridge should be given more time to prove his worth in the starting eleven as he believes there are very few players who can compare to the England international.
When asked whether Klopp should stick with Sturridge, Heskey replied: "Most definitely “ he's an outstanding talent, one of those players who can just make something out of nothing.
"He's had a slow start to the season, but when he's fit and on form there are very few in his calibre."
Daniel Sturridge's game by numbers vs. Man Utd:
1 touch inside the box
0 chances created
0 take-ons
0 shots
Isolated and ineffective. pic.twitter.com/GVzXQhB3W4
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann also weighed in on Sturridge's current situation and called on the striker to improve or face losing his place in the side.
"It depends on him staying fit and performing," the former Germany international said.
"In my opinion he is the most capable striker in the league, bar Sergio Aguero.But we need to start seeing a consistent return from his talent."
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