Daniel Sturridge doubtful for England duty

England manager Roy Hodgson may reportedly be without the services of Daniel Sturridge for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania and friendly encounter away in Italy.

The Liverpool forward has not played for his country since early September because of thigh and calf injuries.

However, despite having recovered from those complaints, the 25-year-old suffered a hip problem during his side's 2-1 defeat by rivals Manchester United yesterday afternoon, according to numerous reports.

Sturridge has linked up with the Three Lions squad at their St George's Park training base, but he is currently regarded to be a doubt for both matches.

News of Sturridge's potential omission is likely to be a boost for Harry Kane, who could now start up front for the first time at senior international level alongside captain Wayne Rooney.

Sturridge's Liverpool teammate Adam Lallana, as well as Fraser Forster and Luke Shaw, have already withdrawn with fitness issues.