Hodgson defends Sturridge’s England inclusion

England manager Roy Hodgson has ruled out apologising for playing Daniel Sturridge in the recent friendly defeat to Germany, the Mirror understands.

The Liverpool striker played the entire ninety minutes at Wembley two weeks ago despite carrying a thigh injury, and has now been ruled out for up to two months after picking up an ankle problem.

Hodgson has said that the former Chelsea and Manchester City man had passed a big test of loyalty by putting his country before his club, but that will do little to appease Reds’ boss Brendan Rodgers, who will now be without one of his star performers going into a hectic Christmas period.

Sturridge has nine goals in twelve league appearances this season and nineteen in twenty-six top-flight outings since moving from Stamford Bridge in January.

Meanwhile, the Daily Star understands that Rodgers’ will delve into the transfer market when the window reopens next month.

One player who could be on his way to Anfield is Barcelona striker Cristian Tello, who has admitted that he could leave the Nou Camp if his lack of first-team opportunities continues.

The 22 year old one time Spain international has made just two starts in La Liga this season.