Ex-Liverpool Defender Urges Club to Sign Support for Fragile Sturridge

Former Liverpool defender Jason McAteer says the club must make an attacking additional in the January transfer window to offset the delicate fitness of striker Daniel Sturridge.

Sturridge featured in England's friendly defeat to Germany in mid-week after receiving an injection to cure a thigh injury, but has been ruled out of the Reds' trip to Everton on Saturday.

Despite enjoying a fruitful 2013 during which the Liverpool striker has scored 23 goals for club and country, the 24 year old's fitness is a constant concern and McAteer says the club require some backup if they're to achieve anything this season.

"There is no doubt that Sturridge is a great player, but if the club wants to win some medals then they must look at getting some players in," he told Goal.com.

"I am hoping that he will recover well from his injuries, and that is why I feel that there should be some back-up just in case something happens to him."

"He [Sturridge] is a great player, but the reality is that he needs support [other than Suarez]. I feel that Liverpool needs to beef up their midfield and striking department."

Strike-partner Luis Suarez has also enjoyed an impressive 2013, including scored eight league goals since his return from a 10 match ban.

Between them, Suarez and Sturridge have formed the most potent partnership in the Premier League this season, inspiring a start to the campaign which sees Liverpool second, two points behind leaders Arsenal.

Manager Brendan Rodgers has recently admitted that the reintegration of Suarez into the Liverpool first team, following a summer during which he constantly demanded out of Anfield, has been the making of him at the helm on Merseyside.