Brendan Rodgers: Daniel Sturridge thrives on confidence

Liverpool boss Brenden Rodgers thinks that renewed confidence is the reason behind Daniel Sturridge’s remarkable form at Anfield.

Liverpool player Daniel Sturridge looks on during the Barclays Premier League match between Aston Villa and Liverpool at Villa Park on August 24, 2013 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The 23-year old was on the score sheet in both of Liverpool’s opening games of the season, continuing his hot streak since joining the Reds from Chelsea in January.

The England international has scored 12 goals in 13 starts for the Merseysiders, and Rodgers has credited his impact to the regular football afforded to him since his move from Chelsea.

“There’s a few things. Firstly, it’s opportunity and confidence. He’s a player who thrives on confidence,” Rodgers said. “He’s come into a really special football club where the supporters have made him feel really welcome and he’s thriving on that.

“He’s always had the ability but it’s very difficult. He was at a great club at Manchester City and probably when he was about to get his chance, having come through the system there, all the money came into the club and there probably was no opportunity for a young player.

“So he made the move to Chelsea thinking maybe he was going to get more opportunities but there was Didier Drogba, senior players in front of him, so he never really got the chance, and then when he did play it was probably more in a wide area.

“He’s a number nine, he can move, he can sprint, he’s a really good footballer as well, he’s not just a goalscorer. You see his movement, his touch, and he’s thrived on the confidence of his team-mates and the people around the club.”

Meanwhile Rodgers claims the Brazilian-like skills of Sturridge will be a major asset for the England national team.

“If you look at Daniel Sturridge and what he has, as long as he continues and keeps his fitness, he would be a big threat for any team,” Rodgers told Sky Sports.

“You’d look at him and people would think he’d maybe be a Brazilian striker with his body physique and his pace and power.

“England are fortunate to have him because he’s a big talent but he knows he needs to be consistent, he needs to get himself the games and the goals. I have got no doubt, though, that he will be a massive asset for England.

“But it’s still very early, he has a lot more to do, but there is no question he’s potentially the top English striker. He’s got all the tools to be that.