Daniel Sturridge has spoken about his passion for representing England, as the thought of next summer’s World Cup comes quickly into focus.
The Liverpool striker has been in good form with the Anfield club this season and is hoping to be firmly in Roy Hodgson’s thoughts for the trip to Brazil.
And the 24-year-old admits he is prepared to play through the pain barrier if it means pulling on the Three Lions shirt.
“For me, regardless of what condition you are in, if you are selected by the manager of England you go out there and do the best you can, regardless of whether you are injured or not," said Sturridge.
“The manager (Roy Hodgson) gave me that opportunity and it was a pleasure to put the England shirt on.
“Fit or not fit, you go out and do your best."
Sturridge was involved in Hodgson’s squad for the games with Chile and Germany earlier this month.
He played the full game against Germany, despite having missed training in the days building up to the 1-0 defeat.
England striker Daniel Sturridge speaks exclusively to TheFA.com
But after returning to Anfield and grabbing a goal in Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Everton, Sturridge is hoping to fine-tune his fitness in order to maximise his performances even more.
“I didn't get to train much when I was with England,” he revealed.
“I think I only trained once before the game, and I need to get the momentum going to try to get right.
“I need to make sure I am in condition to go out there and do myself justice.”
Meanwhile, Sturridge admits his last-minute goal at Goodison Park has meant a change in his shopping habits this week.
The former Manchester City and Chelsea player had an awkward encounter with an Evertonian shop assistant ahead of the game, being warned that a goal would mean he’d be refused service.
And Sturridge is still unsure to the reception he might receive on his return.
“I'm not going in the local Tesco for the next few days because I'm not too sure I'll get served," he joked.
“The fella knows who he is, I know who he is and I'll not be going in there for the next few days.
“I might go in next week and see if he is okay and if we can move on from this.”
