Daniel Sturridge: 'I learned a lot from Didier Drogba'

By Liam Power, Reporter | 14 May 2013

Sturridge: 'I learned a lot from Drogba'

Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge reveals that Didier Drogba's attitude under pressure has had a positive impact on his outlook and drive to become a top striker.

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has revealed that Didier Drogba's mental strength under pressure is something he hopes to emulate during his career.

Sturridge endured a frustrating spell with Chelsea but has been in fine form since sealing a January switch to Anfield, scoring 11 goals in all competitions for Liverpool.

After netting his first hat-trick in Sunday's 3-1 win over Fulham, the England international has shared that Drogba's attitude is helping to shape his outlook on and off the pitch.

He told The Mirror: "At Chelsea, I didn't play two games in a row as a striker. I didn't have an opportunity but that's in the past for me now.

"I am a lot more peaceful and I'm playing with a clear mind. But I'm glad all that happened. God made that happen and showed me how I need to be strong mentally. Being strong mentally is the one thing that can separate you from anyone else.

"When I worked with Didier Drogba at Chelsea, the one strength he had above everybody was his mental strength. I learned a lot from working with him about what it takes to be a top player. Hopefully I'll become one."

Sturridge has scored 11 goals in 15 Reds games, equalling a record jointly held by Fernando Torres and Robbie Fowler for the fastest Liverpool player to reach double figures in the Premier League era.