Sturridge the naturalist: ‘I’m a lion or a gazelle’

Daniel Storey

Daniel Sturridge insists that his injury problems never got him down to the point where he feared for his career.

Sturridge was speaking before England’s game against Iceland, and is expected to start the match in a 4-3-3 formation with Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling.

Sturridge has suffered significant injury problems since the last World Cup, putting his place at the European Championship on the line.

Yet Sturridge says that he never lost faith, and always had the support of those close to him.

“I love playing big games, when you are in the situation where everything is on the line and someone has to step up,” he said.

“The last time out has probably been the worst. Then it becomes mental, not just football. Did I fear for my career?

“Hell, no! I’ve got too many beautiful people around me, my family and a lady to let it all get to me.

“I was almost like a lion against Wales, or a gazelle. I love lions, I don’t know why. But sometimes they are calm and sometimes they attack.

“It’s about enjoying it, letting your feet do the talking.”