Exclusive – Kieron Dyer issues Liverpool with £50m warning over Daniel Sturridge future

Kieron Dyer has warned Liverpool they will need to spend up to £50million to replace Daniel Sturridge.

Reports on Friday morning claimed the striker is ready to quit Anfield because he is fed up of the criticism he is receiving over his constant problems with injuries.

But former Ipswich, Newcastle and West Ham star Dyer, a man who knows all about lengthy battles for full fitness, insists it would be a mistake if the Reds discard him.

He told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast: “If they sell Daniel Sturridge on the cheap, they are going to have to spend £40million or £50million to get a striker of that calibre.

“If he’s got a legitimate injury, and he knows he’s going to go on the pitch and there’s a great chance he could break down after ten or 15 minutes, I think he’s doing the right thing [by saying he’s unfit].

“Yes, people want to see the desire, and when he’s on the pitch he does show that desire. He’s Liverpool’s most important and best player, when he’s on the pitch.”

Sturridge has played just five games in the Premier League this season, however, and Dyer admits patience may well be running thin on Merseyside.

“I think Jurgen Klopp has already fallen out of love with him if you read the quotes and hear what he has to say, which is a shame,” he added.

“I hope it gets resolved because Liverpool need him if they are to get back to being the force they once were.”