Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge RULED OUT of England's games against Lithuania and Italy

Posted Tuesday, March 24, 2015 by Dailystar.co.uk

DANIEL STURRIDGE has been ruled out of England's games against Lithuania and Italy with a hip injury.

The striker suffered the problem in Liverpool's defeat to Manchester United yesterday and he has returned to his club following a scan.

Sturridge was assessed by England's medical club on his arrival at St George's Park this afternoon but was deemed unfit for the Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania on Friday and the friendly against Italy in Turin four days later.

His withdrawal will increase the chances of Tottenham star Harry Kane winning his first cap for the Three Lions.

Sturridge had been in line to make his first appearance for England since September. He suffered a thigh injury while on international duty which kept him out for five months.

Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge RULED OUT of England's games against Lithuania and Italy
INJURY: Daniel Sturridge scored against Manchester United yesterday but suffered a hip problem during the game

The extent of the 25-year-old's latest injury is unclear although he played the full 90 minutes against United at Anfield, scoring the Reds' goal in the 2-1 loss.

He joins teammate Adam Lallana (groin) in withdrawing from the squad while there are also concerns around Raheem Sterling who has been carrying a toe injury and will continue to be monitored.

England have so far not called up a replacement for Sturridge meaning uncapped Kane will contest Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck for a starting spot in Roy Hodgson's side.