Times correspondent Jonathan Northcroft has expressed his disbelief after Gareth Southgate decide to ignore Daniel Sturridge for the England squad. The 28-year-old has been impressive for Liverpool whenever called upon from the bench this season and Northcroft believes he should have warranted a place for the upcoming set of internationals.

In a report covered by Sky Sports’ Sunday Supplement, he said: “Daniel Sturridge, in terms of talent, and someone who is in good shape and form - England should be biting the hand off to get Sturridge in there. I would have him in the team. I do not understand that one [Sturridge omission], I would actually have him in the team. He is a slightly different player to Harry Kane, if you want a No 9 and a No 10. Throwing Raheem Sterling in there, there are some incredible talents.”

Sturridge was initially fancied to make way from the Reds during the summer after a frustrating loan spell with West Bromwich Albion at the backend of the previous campaign. However, he managed to turn things around with a strong pre-season and this has assured him of some gametime under Jurgen Klopp.

Since“, the season began, Sturridge has generally played from the substitutes“’ bench but he has nevertheless made an impact with four goals from just nine matches – including a stellar strike against former club Chelsea during the recent 1-1 Premier League draw between the clubs. “,At present, Sturridge has “just nine months remaining on his existing contract but he could be handed an extension in the near future with Klopp pleased with the progress shown.

Meanwhile, Southgate has had to deal with injury concerns to the likes of Dele Alli and Jesse Lingard and this has recently witnessed maiden call-ups for James Maddison, Mason Mount, and Jadon Sancho – all of whom have been hugely influential to how their clubs have performed during the current campaign.