Legend never doubted Dan's star potential
When Robbie Fowler watched Daniel Sturridge turn Manchester City first-team players inside and out at the tender age of 15, he knew the boy was destined to be star.
City had invited Sturridge along to pit his wits against the senior squad - and the Academy prodigy exuded the sort of skill and composure that has delighted Kopites this season.
Fowler, who spent three years at the Manchester outfit before returning to Anfield, marvelled at the youngster's sheer confidence in the sessions they shared.
Now, almost 10 years later, Sturridge is attempting to emulate Fowler's proud goalscoring tradition, leading the Liverpool line alongside Luis Suarez and firing 21 goals in 24 matches this season.
"I was lucky enough to train with Daniel when I was at Manchester City," Fowler told the Liverpool Echo. "You could see even at the age of 15 that he had everything.
"He used to embarrass some of the older players in the squad with his skill. He was so confident. I always knew he would go on to become a special player.
"I see all the qualities an international striker needs. I have been really impressed by Daniel. There was a lot of pressure on him when he came to Liverpool.
"He has had a few blips along the way but thankfully he has found his place at Liverpool and is setting the world alight. He's a phenomenal player."