Liverpool Captain Steven Gerrard discussed the rise to stardom of Daniel Sturridge at Anfield since the young 24-year-old forward arrived from Chelsea in January early this year.
Sturridge had been previously used more as a wide player during his time with Manchester City and Chelsea, but since his arrival at Liverpool the England international has been allowed more freedom to attack in a central role and has seen his form skyrocket.
Having seen firsthand Sturridge come to life for Liverpool, Gerrard has backed his teammate to recreate that form for England in the future according to his comments to the Mirror:
"You've got to understand Daniel was playing as a wide forward at Chelsea. He scored quite a few goals from there but the team was built around Drogba - and understandably so.
But ever since Daniel's come to Liverpool, the manager has played him as the No.9, as the main man, and as a result he's flourished.
I'm sure if he's given that No.9 role for England he can produce for England as well.”
When asked further about Sturridge’s faith in his own ability and his mental toughness, Gerrard was quick to comment that his teammate was more than capable of keeping his nerves in check:
"I don't think Daniel has any doubts in his own ability. If he's fit and available he will be confident he can deliver at this level.
The thought of Daniel, Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck and Andros Townsend or James Milner to go at any team, is mouthwatering as far as I'm concerned. Mouthwatering.
If that front partnership works, that could be key. Wayne and Danny are unselfish, both capable of setting each other up and scoring the goals themselves. That's what gives me the belief it can work.
That's the reason it's been working with Luis Suarez and Sturridge. They're helping each other and I think Wayne and Daniel can do similar things.''
Sturridge could be involved from the get go against Montenegro this Friday as his current club form has him primed for a place in the first team and England manager Roy Hodgson is expected to name the 24-year-old as the most likely partner of Manchester United star Wayne Rooney.
