England v Germany: Stage set for Daniel Sturridge, says Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard

The striker has been named in Roy Hodgson's starting XI for the game against Germany

England captain Steven Gerrard has called on Daniel Sturridge to show his true quality in the international arena, beginning in Tuesday night's friendly with Germany.

The 24-year-old has scored 21 goals in 29 games since joining Gerrard's Liverpool from Chelsea in January and has been in prolific form this term, with eight goals in 11 Premier League games.

Sturridge has recovered from a thigh problem to earn a start up front alongside Wayne Rooney in Tuesday's Wembley friendly with Germany.

It will be his ninth England appearance and he is seeking a third goal, following strikes against San Marino and Poland.

Now Gerrard hopes the former Manchester City youngster will show his worth on the international stage.

Gerrard said: "I was surprised Chelsea let him go. I'd seen flashes of Daniel at Manchester City and also Chelsea and really liked what I saw.

"Now I've worked with him in close quarters on a daily basis, but also in games with Liverpool and England, I'm a huge fan.

"The stage is set for Daniel to go on and prove to everyone that he's a top-class forward.

"You talk about his partnership with Wayne Rooney. The difference is Wayne's done it, Daniel's got to go and do it now. He's certainly got the talent."

PA