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England's equalizer against Italy yesterday was made almost entirely in Liverpool--Raheem Sterling threaded a lovely pass through a pair of Italian defenders to Wayne Rooney, the former Everton man, down the left, and in his lone moment of inspiration of the match, the 300k per week striker played a perfect left-footed cross for Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge, who poked into an empty net to draw England level. It was a lovely response to the Italians taking the lead just moments earlier, and unfortunately for Roy Hodgson and company, it was their only one.
Sturridge got himself involved as much as possible, getting a few shots off and forcing Salvatore Sirigu into a save early in the second half with an effort from distance. His influence faded as the final forty-five wore on, though, and he was ultimately taken off in the 80th minute for Adam Lallana. Understandable given the conditions, but with Sturridge noticeably limping as he headed toward the bench, there was some cause for concern.
Thankfully it appears to be minor, at least according to the player:
"Everybody is working extremely hard. Everybody is pushing themselves to their limits. I'm pushing myself to my limits and I've got a dead leg now but I'm trying to get over that for the next game."
If he's fit he'll play, much like the rest of his Liverpool teammates that took part last night in Manaus. With a bit more direct support and against an aging Uruguay defense, you'd expect Sturridge to add to his tally, and in turn get England back on track as they look to advance from Group D.
