Hodgson: Sturridge injury a 'major blow'

England boss Roy Hodgson has admitted Daniel Sturridge is facing "a period of time" out of the game but does not believe the Liverpool striker broke his ankle during the 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland.

Sturridge got hurt during a first-half tangle with Glenn Whelan, shortly after crossing for Frank Lampard's equaliser. It was immediately obvious Sturridge was in considerable pain and though he made his way to the touchline, he had to be stretchered to the medical room and underwent scans.

"It is a major blow for him, and for us," said Hodgson. "Daniel had started the game so well, and the way we played in the second half with Sturridge in top form we might have created even more."

He added: "I don't want to say it's a serious injury, but it'll keep him out for a period of time. I don't think anything's broken, but we think it's ligaments the doctor and the orthopaedic surgeon will have to contact Liverpool."

Hodgson has already confirmed he will not call up a replacement for Sunday's encounter with Brazil at the Maracana Stadium, even though he is now down to 16 outfield players. And that number may be 15 by the time he selects a team to face the World Cup hosts as Manchester United's Danny Welbeck is "touch and go" to recover from a knee problem that kept him out of Wednesday's contest.

"He wasn't on the bench," said Hodgson. "He went out for a run yesterday, and did an hour's work in the gym. The swelling in his knee has gone down. It's a question of whether we've got enough time between tomorrow and Sunday whether he plays."

Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni said: "England are one of the strongest three, four or five countries in the world.

"I look at my group, and three or four are young. They need experience. Only against a great team and great players can they grow.

"I am happy from what I saw: James McCarthy, Seamus Coleman. Shane Long was clearly the best on the pitch. I asked the players to show we can play without fear.

"I know what this result meant because I saw they were a bit tense in the dressing room. I didn't want to put more pressure on them. I wanted to give them trust and confidence. They took my advice and accepted my message. The next friendly game against Spain will be another great opportunity."

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