Brazil legend lauds Sturridge potential
A Brazilian icon of three World Cups has highlighted Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge as a player to watch closely when the latest edition gets underway next week.
Zico starred at the showpiece tournament three times - in 1978, 1982 and 1986 - with his sumptuous passing and clinical set-pieces, and was regarded among the greatest stars of his generation.
His country will kick off the event on Thursday, June 12 and ahead of the opening match, the 61-year-old has revealed who he is looking forward to watching - with Sturridge prominent in his thoughts.
The 24-year-old struck 25 goals in all competitions last season and was on target with a sublime curler during England's 3-0 friendly victory over Peru on Friday night.
"Daniel Sturridge impressed me with his composure and movement. His season for Liverpool showed he can also score," Zico wrote in a column for The Guardian.
"To reach the 20-goal mark in a tough league like the Premier League is not easy and this could be good news for England.
"It's also interesting that he will have some Liverpool teammates around him, especially Steven Gerrard.
"Providing there are no injuries, Sturridge could be a difficult player for the opposition to handle. And, in a difficult group, England will need all the help they can get."