After Sturridge blow, could Defoe get last chance to shine for England?

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The Bournemouth striker has a terrific record in an England shirt and could well make Southgate’s squad for Russia.

West Bromwich Albion striker Daniel Sturridge, on loan from Liverpool, has been confirmed to be out for at least a month following an injury sustained in a game against Chelsea, just his third appearance for the Midlands club, according to the Sun.

Sturridge, 28, was in desperate need of a move away from Liverpool in January, with his Anfield career having stagnated. With eyes on making the England squad for the World Cup in Russia this summer, the former Chelsea striker jumped at the chance to join West Brom and was hoping to make the difference in terms of relegation and promotion for Alan Pardew’s side.

Unfortunately for Sturridge and West Brom, news of his month-long layoff will likely mean the end of his Russia 2018 hopes, and will also decrease the chance of the Baggies’ survival, considering their abysmal scoring record so far this season.

The injury to Sturridge just may play into the hands of a certain England veteran, however, who must also have his sights set on a last hurrah with the Three Lions.

Jermain Defoe has not found his usual scoring boots this season since switching to Bournemouth, after experiencing relegation with Sunderland last term.

However, having netted 15 league goals for the Black Cats only last season, the former Spurs star needs to finish the season strongly with Bournemouth, and improve his record of three league goals so far to launch himself into contention for Southgate’s squad.

Defoe, 35, boasts a highly impressive England record, with 20 goals in 57 caps. On top of his 20 goals, he is one of the most experienced players in the England set up, with only Joe Hart and Gary Cahill having earned more caps during their international careers.

The Cherries man will be up against the likes of Jamie Vardy, Marcus Rashford, Tammy Abraham, Danny Welbeck and Dominic Solanke for a place in the squad, with Harry Kane a certainty to go if he remains fit until the summer.

With Solanke and Abraham having only three caps and no goals between them, should Defoe enjoy a scoring run from now until the end of the season, you would surely have to opt with his experience over relatively unproven talent.

Nonetheless, Southgate will be watching closely as the end of the season draws nearer.