Harry Iles assesses Liverpool’s options in the striking department.
We enter the new season with various options going forward. This leads to many questions as to who is viewed as our first choice striker. With various players such as Christian Benteke looking to be on the way out, I’d like to look into our possibilities going into the season.
Daniel Sturridge had a very impressive season last year, despite his host of injuries. He averaged nearly a goal every two games and got various assists over the year. Although, having said that, Sturridge cannot be relied upon due to his persistent injury problems and his inability to play more than a game per week. Going into the new season Sturridge is seen as the main striking option due to his intelligence and finishing ability. Though his slightly poor work rate and occasional bad attitude could see him fall out of favour under Klopp.
Divock Origi was sorely missed during the closing matches of last season as injury struck during a rich vein of form. Origi scored numerous goals in the latter stages of last season and became our first choice striker for the vital games of the season. However, there are still questions regarding his consistency after failing to impress in the first half of last season. But Origi comes into the season with a great opportunity to secure his spot as our first choice striker.
Danny Ings comes into the season feeling like a new signing after missing the majority of last season through injury. Similarly to Origi, Ings picked up an injury shortly after hitting some form in the early stages of the last campaign. Though during the games he played, he showed quality in front of goal as well as pace and intelligence to get in behind the defence. He has proven to be a Premier League goal scorer and will be a great backup or even first team striker this season.
It is yet to be established where Roberto Firmino’s best position is but he performed extremely well when played as a striker last season. He scored a lot of goals when we lacked options going forward. This leaves him as an extremely helpful backup if needed. Sadio Mane is primarily a winger but is also able to play as a striker. He showed how dangerous he can be when played there during his time at Southampton with his ability to beat players and run in behind. He is also a proven finisher, making him a helpful option.