Daniel Sturridge claims Liverpool’s display at Manchester City on Sunday shows why a top-four place is still not beyond them this season.
The No. 15 fired his fourth goal in six games in the 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium, and he insists the players will give everything they can to try and cut the nine-point gap to a Champions League spot.
“We are gutted with the draw because I felt we deserved to win,” Sturridge told Liverpoolfc.com. “In our last two games we have played against two great clubs and deserved to win both of the games.
“We have got two good results in fairness even though in mine and the lads’ hearts we know we should have had six points, but we didn’t lose so hats off to the boys for the character they showed.
“We’ll regroup and get ready for our next game against West Bromwich Albion, which is another massive game for us because they are also challenging for the top places.
“We are nine points off the top four so it’s not a massive gap to try and recoup so hopefully we’ll be able to do that — we believe we can.
“We have still got to play Chelsea and Tottenham at home and the other teams challenging have to play each other so hopefully we can win those home games and stamp our authority. When teams come to Anfield we need to show what we are all about.”
Reflecting on his strike at the Etihad, the striker admitted he didn’t celebrate the goal as a mark of respect for City, who gave him his big break.
“I didn’t celebrate because it was against my old club and they paved the way for my career and gave me my league debut,” he added. “I respect the City fans, I respect the staff and I’m just thankful for the opportunity they gave me.”
Sturridge also paid tribute to inspirational skipper Steven Gerrard, who netted a fine strike — on the same day he was crowned as England’s Player of the Year for 2012.
“It was a great strike from Stevie for his goal, trademark for him,” he said. “He’s a great captain, a great player, a great man off the field and I’m delighted to be playing alongside him.”
The striker received a great ovation from the travelling Kop when he left the field and he was quick to pay tribute to their support.
“The Liverpool fans are the best in the country,” said Sturridge. “I’m not just saying that because I’ve joined the club as I’ve always felt when I played against Liverpool that it had been a different kind of feeling with the way the fans get behind the team.
“It’s different to other teams and when you hear ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ you really feel the passion and it is in my heart. I’m delighted to be here and I thank the manager for giving me that opportunity.”
After picking up a knock in the game, Sturridge is out of Wednesday’s England friendly with Brazil at Wembley. The striker will now be assessed by the medical team.
“I got a knock on my quad and I’m going to get a scan on it,” he added. “Hopefully it’s not too serious and I’ll be okay for next week’s game.”
