The youngster, who spent the previous break with the senior squad as they beat Moldova and laboured to a draw in the Ukraine, will replace Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley calf injury after the England medical team ruled him out prior to the sides surprise 4-1 win against Montenegro at Wembley yesterday. Despite the win, England still need to beat Poland on Tuesday to ensure top spot in their group and automatic qualification for the World Cup next year in Brazil.
The Jamaica born winger, who became the fifth youngest player to play for England when he started the 4-2 defeat at the hands of Sweden last November. Although it’s unlikely that Sterling will even see the pitch, he can gain some valuable experience alongside the senior England squad — at this point, the u21’s would feel like a step down after training with Liverpool at Melwood day-in and day-out.
The 18-year old, who has played eight times for the Reds this season alone will meet up with the senior squad today after impressing in the Baby Lion’s 4-0 win on Thursday night. England go into the match on Tuesday leading their group by a single point, and with the Ukraine nailed on for a win against minnows San Marino, there’s no doubt that Roy Hodgson’s men have to come away with full points if they want to keep their fate in their own hands.
