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Daniel Sturridge has lifted the lid on the training regime which has drilled Liverpool into title contenders.

The England striker believes Jurgen Klopp’s double sessions and the strong emphasis on tactical battle plans is paying off with the Reds sitting on top of the Premier League.

“It’s very tactical based,” Sturridge said.

“I couldn’t tell you the last time we played five-a-side.

“Maybe the day after a game, the players who didn’t play will go four v four, but we never really have small sided games.

“We might do a shooting session but there’s a lot else going on with the passing that’s involved. You have to be on point. You need to be focused. You don’t want to be the one who messes it up.

“It’s very tactical, preparing for the opposition.

“In football, not may clubs do double sessions during the season but we have the opportunity to do it with no Europe and we can use that time.

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“The first session is usually a bridge session for the second one. It’s more relaxed. The second session is more intense.”

Sturridge was speaking to students from the Liverpool FC Foundation College, alongside team-mate Emre Can, during a recent visit to Melwood.

The teenagers got to quiz the Reds frontman about life at Liverpool and he gave them advice about pursuing a career in football.

“It’s very important you study hard,” Sturridge said.

“You can’t put all your eggs in one basket. Getting an education is important.

“You need to stay focused. Youngsters get to a certain stage and there are so many things going on around you - girls, nightlife, drinking.

“Everyone’s set of friends has an influence on them. It can make or break your life. They are supposed to push you in the right direction and help you be the best you can be as a person.

“Have belief in yourself, work on your weaknesses and never give up.

“You have to separate yourself from everyone else. Unless you are that one diamond shining amongst the dirt you won’t get noticed.”

Some of the college’s students are looking to get back into the pro ranks after being released by academies. Others are looking to launch a career in sport science or coaching.

“If you’re going to be a coach, be a good man manager,” Sturridge said.

“The majority of players like a manager who is honest with them. You need to gain the respect of your players.

“We need to understand what he wants from us and we need to buy into that. Gain that trust and then players will do anything for you.”

College director David MacDiarmid added: “For our students to spend time with the players they idolise was fantastic.

“Daniel and Emre are role models and youngsters take notice of what they say. It will serve them well.”

The Liverpool FC Foundation College – based at the University of Liverpool Wyncote Sports Ground - helps teenagers with a passion for football pursue their dreams.

Under the guidance of directors MacDiarmid and David Rowe, youngsters aged 16 to 19 train on a daily basis while working towards achieving educational qualifications.

They are holding an open evening for current Year 11 pupils in the Centenary Stand at Anfield on Thursday, November 10 from 6.30pm until 8pm.

Tutors will be on hand to provide advice and guidance about the entry requirements for each qualification and the different academic pathways on offer at the college.

You can call 0151 7244983 to reserve a place or just turn up on the night.

For further details about the college go to: www.lfcfoundationcollege.com