The Reds striker has been struggling for fitness since damaging ankle ligaments in England’s 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland over the summer and there were fears that he wouldn’t be ready to go when the new season kicked off; thankfully those fears were abated and the 24-year old has gone on to score the winner in Liverpool’s opening three fixtures including a 1-0 defeat of arch rivals Manchester United last weekend. Following the match, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers revealed that Sturridge was a doubt to even take part as he was struggling with a thigh injury and despite the concerns expressed by his manager, he met up with the England squad at St. James Park on Monday; needless to say this didn’t improve his condition.
After missing training with the squad this week, the striker – who was still keen to represent his country against a side ranked 123rd in the world – has been sent back to Melwood for further treatment and ruled out of Friday night’s match. Sturridge will link back up with the England squad over the weekend to be re-assessed for the match against Ukraine the following Tuesday. Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson is facing an injury crisis with the likes of Wayne Rooney, Glen Johnson, Phil Jones and now Daniel Sturridge on the sidelines for what will be decisive clashes on the road to Rio 2014. While it’s easy for most people to sympathize with the England boss, Reds fans – the News Desk included – would rather see Sturridge back on Merseyside and wrapped in cotton batting. It’s not like England are going to win the World Cup anyways…
