Liverpool vs West Ham: Daniel Sturridge targeted by Slaven Bilic as Hammers chief looks for January reinforcements
Croat refuses to rule out a move for injury-prone striker when quizzed about his interest in Liverpool star
SLAVEN BILIC has fuelled rumours he is set to swoop for Liverpool hitman Daniel Sturridge in Janaury.
Struggling West Ham dropped into the relegation zone yesterday ahead of this afternoon's trip to Anfield.
And Bilic refused to rule out a move for "great player" Sturridge when asked if he could turn to the England international to inspire a survival push.
He said: "He's just a player that has been linked with us, basically, and we've been linked with almost every player.
"We're always there in contention. Most of the time it's absolutely not true, 95 per cent of the time. But you're asking me about Sturridge and I have no problem about that."
The biggest concern for Bilic will be injury-prone Sturridge's difficulty in getting a run of games under his belt.
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Today's game will be the 85th the crocked 27-year-old - who has a calf problem - has missed through injury since joining Liverpool from Chelsea in Bilic added: "He's one of the biggest talents - he's a great player. The talent is there, the touch, the finishing, everything is great.
"The only thing that gas stopped him being a regular for club and country are the injuries.
"I don't know his work rate, I don't know his dedication to his job or whatever but unfortunately for Liverpool and England - and especially for him - he's injured. That's his problem."
Unlike England team-mate Sturridge Andy Carroll has managed to shake off his own injury issues and will be available to face his former club.
The Hammers desperately need a win but face a tough ask against Jurgen Klopp's high-flying Liverpool.
Despite Sturridge's problems, it is unlikely the German boss will let him leave without signing a replacement as the Reds push for the title.