Sturridge injury doubt for England

03 February 2013 20:17

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is a doubt for England's midweek friendly with Brazil after sustaining a thigh injury in the 2-2 draw at Manchester City.

The 23-year-old, who has just four senior caps, scored a brilliant goal at the Etihad Stadium to make it 1-1 in the first half but then picked up a knock. He remained on the pitch until he was substituted just before the final whistle but Rodgers is not optimistic about his chances of joining up with England.

"He got a knock just before half-time on his thigh and he wanted to give it a go in the second half," said the Reds boss.

"I think he will be a doubt for the game on Wednesday, which is unfortunate because he was terrific today.

"His hold-up play, movement and pace was a real threat, and combination with Luis Suarez, Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson up front was outstanding.

"He is just with the medics at the moment and he will have a chat with our doctors and he will speak with the England set-up.

"They might want to have a look at it but at the moment he is obviously struggling."

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas confirmed earlier striker Jermain Defoe will definitely miss the match after sustaining an ankle injury in the 1-0 win over West Brom.

Defoe suffered the injury in the first half at The Hawthorns, when he landed awkwardly on his left ankle and was substituted.

Villas-Boas said Defoe would be sent for a scan to determine the extent of the damage.

Source: PA