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Unassuming Sturridge eyes England cap

Comment: 0 October 17th, 2011 by: admin

DANIEL Sturridge is in no hurry. He’s not someone who makes abrupt assumptions until he proves himself.

With that in mind, the 22-year-old striker is not being carried away that he could make the England national team just because Wayne Rooney is suspended for the Euro 2012 group matches.

Sturridge has already scored four goals in his four Premier League starts for Chelsea thus far but missed out on Fabio Capello’s squad that tackled Montenegro recently despite making a big impression for the Under-21 outfit. His mission now is to earn a senior cap.

Rooney’s three-game ban has opened doors for English strikers but Sturridge insisted he would never be stupid to presume he could fill the shoes of the Manchester United forward.

“I think Rooney’s going to go (to Euro 2012) regardless because he’s the best striker. I don’t think I;ve ever thought I’m going to go because Rooney’s not going, or anything like that,’’ said Sturridge, who converted Chelsea’s opening goal in their 3-1 triumph against Everton over the weekend.

He added: “You always want to play for the national team. But I’ve not had a cap yet and I can’t assume I’m going to get one.’’

Sturridge said he must work hard to achieve his goal, admitting his form is not yet good enough.

But he vowed to be on his top form to make the Three Lions roster. “I’m going to make sure my form’s good enough and I’m going to make sure I can do all I can to get into the team.’’

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas said Sturridge has the talent to earn a place in England. “It can happen. I don’t want to influence any kind of decision but eventually, any English player who is performing can get a call-up for the national team.’’

The Portuguese mentor believes Sturridge is close to being selected for the Three Lions.

A shoddy Everton defence enabled Sturridge to strike after 31 minutes before Blues captain John Terry and Ramires provided the other goals.

 

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