The Liverpool striker was on the score sheet in the 2-0 win over Malta.
Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton has told the Daily Mail that Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge must be more selfish for England.
The striker was handed his chance to impress new Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate on Saturday as he was picked to lead the line against Malta.
Overall it was a frustrating evening for him as a deep sitting Malta defence meant he saw very few opportunities throughout.
He did take his big chance in the game, though, heading home superbly to bag his seventh goal for England and helping them to a 2-0 win overall.
While the Liverpool forward will have been pleased to find the back of the net, Sutton has told him he must be more selfish to ensure he is starting in future.
“If Daniel Sturridge is going to continue leading the line for England, he needs to be more selfish,” he told the Daily Mail.
“This is international football and surely Sturridge has to understand the role he is playing. He needs to take responsibility as a No 9 and offer the threat that a centre-forward should offer.”
Sturridge faces fierce competition for his place in the England team at present, with the Three Lions well stocked in that area.
Harry Kane may be out injured but the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jamie Vardy are his current competitors for the upcoming clash against Slovenia.
His goal against Malta may have put him ahead in manager Southgate’s plans but for Sutton, he should not be starting.
“Can you argue that Sturridge did enough to justify starting against Slovenia? Possibly not as a No 9, although he did get his goal,” he added.
“Southgate still has a decision to make, though. If it was me, I’d go for Jamie Vardy or Marcus Rashford through the middle because of the threat they offer in behind.”
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