Not Sturridge: Liverpool Forward Stars In England Win, But Has He Booked His Place In World Cup Squad?

England boss Roy Hodgson says he has World Cup selection "headaches" after positive performances from his young players in his side’s 1-0 victory over Denmark. This fixture provided Hodgson with his final opportunity to assess his options before selecting a 30-man preliminary squad for the summer’s tournament in Brazil.

Daniel Sturridge scored the winning goal as England secured struck late to secure a hard-fought win against the Danes. However it was his Liverpool teammate, Raheem Sterling, who advanced his claims for a place in England’s World Cup squad.

The youngster walked away clutching the man of the match award after an impressive all-round performance. He put in a fantastic display for his country combining his lighting pace and ability with an incredible work rate up and down the flank. The 19-year-old was making his second senior international appearance - some 16 months after his debut against Sweden.

His display yesterday evening, on top of his domestic form, has certainly boosted his chances of securing a place in the Three Lion’s first team. The question now is not whether or not he goes to the World Cup, but whether he warrants a position in Hodgson’s starting 11.

Alongside Sterling, Sturridge, Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and even, the now-injured, Jack Wilshere, all deserved credit for yesterday’s win. Hodgson now has a tough task refining his final 30-man squad. 

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