FIFA World Cup Qualifier: Daniel Sturridge set to miss England's game against Moldova

Sturridge celebrates his goal against Manchester United at Anfield on September 1

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge will not be a part of the England squad that will face Moldova in the World Cup qualifier on Friday due to an injury, Southampton forward Rickie Lambert is set to be his replacement, ESPN reports.

The 24-year-old hopes for a speedy recovery in order to be fit for England’s important match against Ukraine on Tuesday.

Sturridge’s injury is a huge blow for England manager Roy Hodgson, who faces a shortage of strikers with Manchester United‘s Wayne Rooney injuring his head in training last week.

The lack of defenders is also a headache for Hodgson, with Glen Johnson and Phil Jones picking up injuries while playing for Liverpool and Manchester United respectively. Cardiff City’s Steven Caulker is also ruled out with an ankle injury.

Hodgson said: “We won’t know until training on Sunday if Daniel Sturridge will be fit for the Ukraine game.

“We’ve not been lucky with injuries, we’ve lost five players, but it’s an opportunity for others and up to them to do a job.”

Sturridge has been in stellar form for Liverpool scoring five goals in four games this season.

The striker confessed to not being fully fit for Sunday’s match against Manchester United and refrained from long-range shots on goal due to a thigh injury.

England trail group leaders Montenegro by two points and have a game in hand, while Ukraine sit at third place.

Hodgson said: “I would say we need ten points from four games as long as we don’t lose to Ukraine and we beat Montenegro.”

Sturridge will be returning to Liverpool in order to receive treatment, but could make a comeback against Ukraine if he shows improvement, the FA confirmed.