Stu backs Sturridge to shine

Posted Monday, August 06, 2012 by The Sun

STUART PEARCE gave gutted Daniel Sturridge a big boost after his Olympic penalty shootout heartache — and backed him to make the step up to England’s senior team.

Chelsea striker Sturridge missed the crucial spot-kick as Team GB’s hopes were dashed by South Korea on Saturday.

Sturridge, 22, had netted against the United Arab Emirates and Uruguay in the group stage.

And boss Pearce insisted he will be in Roy Hodgson’s plans for the World Cup 2014 qualifiers — along with Manchester United’s Tom Cleverley.

Pearce said: “The way Cleverley can handle the ball and with Sturridge’s eye for goal, they’re two individuals who can be in the senior England team.”

GB skipper Ryan Giggs was gutted to see his Olympic dream end and called on football bosses to find a way to send a British team to the Olympics in the future.

It is unlikely that another Team GB will take part again as they cannot enter as one team in the Under-21 competitions — which also serve as qualifiers for the Games.

But Manchester United winger Giggs said: “The Olympics can only be good for players’ development. I’ve cherished every moment of it.”

In the women’s event, world champions Japan are desperate to beat France tonight to reach the final after finishing fourth in Beijing four years ago.

Les Bleus beat Japan 2-0 in a pre-tournament friendly but boss Norio Sasaki insisted: “We lost to France in July but we have worked very hard since then.

“Wembley is the best place for a footballer to play — we’re prepared.”

France official Andre Barthelemy said: “Every country wants to win the gold medal, so we know it will be tough.”

Canada, who beat Team GB in the quarters, will face USA in the other semi at Old Trafford.