The Liverpool striker was unable to start Saturday’s Merseyside derby after his exertions during the international break but says that he would never back down from national duty

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has no regrets over his decision to play for England despite being unable to start the Merseyside derby.

The 24-year-old came on as a second-half substitute against Everton on Saturday, clinching a point for the Reds with an 89th-minute header in the 3-3 draw.

Manager Brendan Rodgers was disappointed by Sturridge’s decision to play 90 minutes against Germany on Tuesday but despite upsetting his club boss, the forward says that he would do it all again if given the opportunity.

“For me, regardless of what condition you are in, if you are selected by the England manager, you go out there and do the best you can, regardless of whether you are carrying an injury or not,” the former Chelsea man told reporters.

“The England manager [Roy Hodgson] gave me an opportunity and it’s always a pleasure to put the England shirt on.”

Rodgers confirmed that Sturridge was unable to start because of his condition after returning from international duty, the striker explaining that he was still being troubled by a thigh injury but hopes to prove his fitness and return to the starting line-up against Hull City on Sunday.

“I have been hampered for the past three games,” Sturridge continued. “Since West Brom, when I got the bang, I’ve had blood underneath my muscles in my thigh. It’s still there now. When I shoot from long distance I still feel pain but it’s getting better.

“It’s important that I’m training. I didn’t get to train much when I was away with England – I only trained once before the game.

“I need to get the momentum going and just try to get it right and make sure I’m in the right condition to be able to go out there and do myself justice. I hope I’ll be fit enough to start against Hull next weekend. It would be great to be back in the side.”