It's a gamble! More mind games from Fergie as United boss questions Sturridge signing

By Carl Markham, Press Association

Published: 09:21 EDT, 12 January 2013 | Updated: 09:21 EDT, 12 January 2013

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has taken a punt on signing Daniel Sturridge.

Having been left with only Luis Suarez as a regular striker when the last transfer window closed, Rodgers moved quickly in this one to supplement his forward options.

Sturridge is an England international. But his four caps equal the number of clubs he has played for, with a period on loan at Bolton in addition to spells with Manchester City and Chelsea prior to his big £12million Anfield move.

New boy: Daniel Sturridge joined Liverpool from Chelsea in the transfer window

He could start alongside Suarez in tomorrow's eagerly-anticipated Old Trafford showdown, but Ferguson feels his ability cannot be taken for granted.

'The big issue for Liverpool is whether they include new signing Daniel Sturridge,' Ferguson told United Review.

'Certainly the arrival of Sturridge gives Brendan Rodgers more strength and options up front.

'Sturridge has had a few clubs but I don't blame him for jumping at the chance of joining Liverpool because he just wasn't playing regularly with Chelsea and I always rate a player whose priority is wanting to play.

Gamble: Alex Ferguson claims signing Sturridge was a risky move from Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers

'Even so, his track record moving between a number of clubs suggests Brendan Rodgers is taking a bit of a gamble, but he clearly knows what he is doing.'

Ferguson has selection issues of his own to deal with, not least whether to draft Nani and Anderson straight back into his starting line-up after recovering from their respective hamstring strains.

The likelihood is that both men will be on the bench at best, although Rio Ferdinand is glad to have them back.

'They are both naturally talented footballers,' said Ferdinand.

Flying start: Sturridge scored on his debut as Liverpool knocked Mansfield out of the FA Cup last weekend

'You don't really get players who can beat opponents in the middle of the park these days.

'That is a good asset to have and is something Anderson has above anyone else. He can go past players and commit people.

'Nani is the same. He is one of the most talented players I have played with.

'He is always a threat. He is quick, sharp and shoots off both feet.

'He can cross the ball too so overall, he has everything.'