Daniel Sturridge: The striker performs his signature dance move with the Champions League trophy after Liverpool's win
Daniel Sturridge: The striker performs his signature dance move with the Champions League trophy after Liverpool's win

Liverpool transfer news: Daniel Sturridge to leave Anfield, Jurgen Klopp pays tribute


England forward Daniel Sturridge will leave Liverpool this summer upon the expiry of his contract, the club have announced.

Liverpool also confirmed defender Alberto Moreno would depart Anfield at the end of his current deal.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp said on the club's official website: "The most important words to say to these two remarkable players is, 'Thank you'."

Sturridge moved to Merseyside from Chelsea during January 2013 and went on to score 67 times in 160 appearances for Liverpool.

Moreno joined the Reds from Sevilla in August 2014, playing 141 games for the club.

Liverpool boss Klopp added: "They were here when I arrived as manager and during that period they - as much as anyone - helped to establish us as a team that would be heading in the right direction. Without them we wouldn't be the team and club we are in this moment."

Both players found regular first-team opportunities limited this season, but Klopp maintained they had continued to show great professionalism.

The Reds boss described Moreno as "an unbelievable character" and "world class", adding the Spaniard "kept the entire group on their toes" with his approach to training.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp talks to Daniel Sturridge
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp talks to Daniel Sturridge

Sturridge's last appearance for Liverpool came as a late substitute during the 4-0 Champions League semi-final second-leg win over Barcelona, which saw the Reds complete a remarkable turnaround to book their place in Madrid.

Klopp said: "Daniel has earned the right to be considered a modern-day Liverpool great, I would think.

"He came to the club while we were trying to rebuild and re-establish ourselves. Some of the goals he has scored for Liverpool were so, so, so important.

"He is one of the best finishers I have ever seen in my life. He scores goals you think could and should not be possible."

Daniel Sturridge celebrates scoring against PSG
Daniel Sturridge celebrates scoring against PSG

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is beaten against Liverpool
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is beaten by Daniel Sturridge

Klopp also paid tribute to Sturridge's influence off the pitch.

The Liverpool boss said: "What maybe is missed on the outside of the club by many is what a great leader Daniel is in our dressing room.

"He is smart, confident and not afraid to speak up when he thinks there is something that needs adapting to help the team.

"He has been great with many of the younger players also, so he has been so important to our progression here.

"I wish both players nothing but success and joy wherever their journey takes them next. Whoever has them next will be so lucky to have these outstanding personalities in their ranks.

"We will miss them of course, but we can say farewell with the best words possible: Guys, you leave as European champions."


Daniel Sturridge's next club... (via Sky Bet)

  • Leicester - 3/1
  • Any MLS club - 4/1
  • Rangers - 6/1
  • Aston Villa - 13/2
  • Any Australian A-League club - 8/1
  • Sheffield United - 8/1

Click here to see the list in full


Odds correct as of 1730 BST on 04/06/19

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