Football broadcaster Simon Hill believes star A-League Men recruit Daniel Sturridge will score a “bag of goals” if he brings a positive mindset to his much-anticipated stint in Australia.
The former English international and two-time Champions League winner has signed for Perth Glory, who will kick off their campaign against Adelaide United at HBF Park on Saturday night.
Hill said he was excited to see how the 32-year-old fared this season, but said he could find the warmer climate and long travel a difficult adjustment.
“I’m sure he might be (rusty) to start the season,” he said on SEN’s Dwayne’s World.
“This is new to him, it’s a new country and new league and he had to spend a fortnight in quarantine which I don’t think he liked very much.
“Daniel Sturridge’s quality is unquestioned, just look at the club he’s played for and he’s played in major tournaments for England.
“If his head is in the right place, he’ll score a bag of goals and (attract big crowds) around the country.
“He has a few issues to deal with at Perth that a few of the clubs in the A-League don’t have, there’s big travel every couple of weeks and the entry to WA borders at the moment isn’t straightforward.
“He’ll be playing in hot conditions and he won’t be used to that, he’ll be playing on hard pitches – a lot of foreigners in this country struggle with it.
“It’ll be interesting to see how his body holds up, but he’s playing in a lot shorter season. It’s an interesting experiment and he’s a big name.”
The new A-League Men’s season will begin on Friday night when defending champions Melbourne City host Brisbane Roar at AAMI Park.