What's your reward for scoring the goal that sends your club to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League?
The bench.
That was the case for Javier Hernandez during Real Madrid's 2-1 defeat to Juventus on Tuesday. The Mexican international was relegated to the bench in favor of Gareth Bale, much to his chagrin.
Gareth Bale Determined to Stay at Madrid
"You have to respect all decisions, even being benched," Hernandez told TVE (via Goal). "I must stay professional. I'll always be."
"Look, a benched player is not a happy player."
In fairness to Hernandez, his attitude is justified. Unlike Bale, the 26-year-old has been in stellar form in recent weeks, providing a goal or an assist in each of his last four starts. That impressive run includes a Champions League quarterfinal against Atletico Madrid and a visit to the Sanchez Pizjuan, a stadium Sevilla remained unbeaten in for 34 consecutive matches.
With the Karim Benzema returning from injury (muscle), the bench is likely to remain his reality, fueling speculation of his future.
The question is: Where will his increased value land him?
Prior to his Champions League start, Southampton and West Ham were just a few of the clubs rumored to be interested in his services. But there's another club higher in the English pecking order that would benefit from a true striker.
Liverpool.
On Friday, Daniel Sturridge underwent hip surgery that will sideline him through August. Striking failures Fabio Borini, Rickie Lambert and Mario Balotelli all appear to have one foot out the door. The club is desperate for a scoring presence and although the Reds won't participate in Champions League football next season, they boast enough pedigree and spending power to lure Hernandez to Anfield.
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