Sturridge gives Chelsea ultimatum over future plans
Published:Chelsea have a big decision to make over the summer regarding the future of Daniel Sturridge, who has issued them an ultimatum that he will leave if not given more first-team opportunities.
After starting the season behind Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka in the striking department, Sturridge slipped further down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge after the January capture of Fernando Torres.
However, eight goals in 11 Premier League appearances since temporarily moving to Bolton on loan has given Chelsea something to think about.
This form has been far superior to Chelsea’s current striking trio and there is every reason to believe that Sturridge will thrive even more at Stamford Bridge, where he is liable to benefit from a greater number of chances in front of goal.
Whether Drogba and Anelka remain at Chelsea next season is likely to be a key determinant on what decision is taken with Sturridge, as if both leave he is liable to stay.
Chelsea will also be aware that they are already guaranteed to lose one of their talented young strikers over the summer as Fabio Borini will leave on a free transfer after failing to agree terms on a contract extension.
Sturridge told Sky Sports News: “I want to play first-team football regularly for Chelsea but if the chances don’t come at Chelsea then I will have to try and look elsewhere.
“Whatever Chelsea decide it’s not for me to make that decision but the only decision I can make is that I want to play first-team football.”
If Sturridge is handed a deserved opportunity at Stamford Bridge, then he could form a formidable partnership with Fernando Torres and potentially fire Chelsea to the Premier League title.
Chelsea are 2/1 in the Premier League odds to win the title next season, with Manchester United currently at the head of this market at 13/8.
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