Opportunity knocks for Rashford as Sturridge fears mount and Delph is ruled out
Manchester City midfielder Fabian Delph has been ruled out of England’s Euro 2016 squad and fears are growing that Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge could be next to be cut.
Manager Roy Hodgson revealed on Thursday that Delph had picked up a minor groin injury, meaning he will miss Friday’s match against Australia and be cut from the final 23-man party.
Sturridge has not trained for two days due to a calf problem, making him a major doubt to face the Socceroos – the last fixture before Hodgson must trim two more names from his provisional squad.
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That has opened the door further for 18-year-old Manchester United sensation Marcus Rashford, who is vying with Sturridge for one place and is set to make his debut at the Stadium of Light.
“If Sturridge isn’t fit then I think you’ll work out he [Rashford] is going to start the game. I’m happy with that; I’m more than content he can handle the situation,” said Hodgson.
“There was no doubt that my original intention was to choose between Sturridge, Rashford and possibly one other. With those two out, it’s pretty obvious Rashford is going to play a serious part in the game.”
Missing the European Championship would be a bitter blow for Sturridge, who sat out much of the season but finished with a run of six goals in his last nine games.
Rashford was only thrust into the United team for the first time in February, amid an injury crisis, but seized his chance and won a shock call-up with eight goals in 18 appearances.
Hodgson, who plans to rest Tottenham’s Harry Kane and Leicester’s Jamie Vardy against Australia, said Delph would be on the standby list and could be recalled if England suffer further injuries.