England legend Alan Shearer backs Daniel Sturridge to flourish for the Three Lions

Steven Gerrard of England congratulates Daniel Sturridge of England on scoring the opening goal during the international friendly match between England and Peru

Former England striker Alan Shearer is adamant current Three Lions forward Daniel Sturridge will have a long career at international level after finally being given a chance in his preferred central role by Roy Hodgson.

The 24-year-old spent the early years of his career being played out of position on the flank at Manchester City and Chelsea before Brendan Rodgers opted to use him through the middle at Liverpool, where has has flourished.

Sturridge enjoyed an excellent campaign for the Merseysiders and his self confidence has risen to new levels, which has been reflected in his both outstanding and instinctive finishes for the Reds.

England fans will be hoping Sturridge can transfer his form onto the international stage, particularly given Wayne Rooney’s poor performances of late, and Shearer believes he should be handed a starting berth by Hodgson in Brazil.

“I think there is no doubt he will start against Italy and so he should and then the rest is up to him.

“And the quicker he feels that shirt is his then the better it will be for him and everyone because he will play with the belief and confidence that he is a top player.

“He has had a great season. He also feels at home at Liverpool which is probably why he is performing. He feels a big part of it now whereas at previous clubs he was a bit part player,” he told reporters.

“He likes running in behind making darting little runs and his movement in the box is very good and his goal scoring for Liverpool has been fantastic.

“I hope he can keep it up because if he does he could be around for a few years,” Shearer insisted.

At 24 years of age Sturridge has just 11 senior caps but enters the tournament as the nation’s most potent striker, demonstrating how quickly fortunes can change in football at elite level.

England face Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica in Group D with their opening fixture against the Azzurri now just 10 days away.