England manager Roy Hodgson has angered Liverpool fans by saying that he is unapologetic over playing Daniel Sturridge in England’s game against Germany even though the striker was not 100% fit.
Brendan Rodgers was rightfully angered when he saw Sturridge play 90 minutes for England. Sturridge returned to Liverpool after that game in a condition that meant the striker was left out of Liverpool’s starting lineup for the Merseyside Derby the following weekend.
Sturridge admitted having a thigh problem in the build-up to the Germany game but Hodgson said he had no regrets making him play the full match.
Hodgson has said, “The good thing for me was that he did get out there. Daniel has pulled out of a few matches with us for injury reasons. He has been unlucky. It was important for me, if you like, to test his resolve a little bit.
“I suppose you could argue we did put his resolve to the test. I might have been guilty of that but I don’t apologise for it. I am delighted he did get out there, even though he maybe didn’t feel 100%, because that means in the future I will know I can trust him in an England team and he is not going to be playing when he feels like it – he is going to be playing when he’s fit.”
Liverpool fans have taken to Twitter to share their thoughts on this move by Hodgson:
Can't decide if I hate Woy or Blue Nose now! Ferguson was after all an excellent manager, Hodgson isn't.
— Albin the Albino (@50ShadesOfEndo) December 3, 2013
Hodgson said WHAT?! Someone hold me back…
— ???? (@_jdhw) December 3, 2013
https://twitter.com/zacharyajohn/status/407803030122135552
Hodgson says – "…better to be injured now than in the summer", SHOCKING! He does not have the interest of Sturridge in mind thats for sure
— Simply_Noch LFC™?? (@nochdawe) December 3, 2013
https://twitter.com/briankettle/status/407660036618334208
https://twitter.com/Green_Scouser/status/407657223196655616
https://twitter.com/DDukeIRL/status/407641957545312256
https://twitter.com/LHervie14/status/407649827296919553
We knew Woy was against Us after Appolagised
To Bacon face. Well keep away woy. You twit twoo! You Owl like person! Shxte manager.
Sir David Cusack. If brunstron and dukinfield
Call themselves Sir. So shall I