'His confidence increased at Anfield'
England manager Roy Hodgson has observed an increased confidence in Daniel Sturridge since the 23-year-old joined Liverpool at the beginning of January.
After arriving at Anfield earlier this year, the striker settled immediately - notching 11 goals in 16 appearances; Sturridge also netted his first international strike, against San Marino in March.
Now the former Chelsea and Manchester City forward could lead the Three Lions line when the Republic of Ireland visit Wembley on Wednesday.
"Daniel has, for many years, been an enormous talent," said Hodgson.
"Chelsea paid a lot of money for him to Manchester City before he had broken into the City team.
"He has been more of a regular at Liverpool, and he has grown in confidence. And we are seeing all the qualities we have always known he has had.
"He is very confident at the moment. And we are hoping he can bring us something with his incredible pace and footwork and technical ability.
"Andy Carroll had to pull out, Danny Welbeck won't be fit for the first game, so this will be an opportunity for Sturridge to show he can do it at a higher level."