Daniel Sturridge and Wayne Rooney Call on Thomas Tuchel to Include Teenage Arsenal Star in His First England Squad

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Wayne Rooney and Daniel Sturridge are urging an England call-up for an Arsenal star after the youngster delivered another outstanding performance against PSV Eindhoven.

Football legends Wayne Rooney and Daniel Sturridge have publicly called for England manager Thomas Tuchel to include Arsenal’s teenage sensation, Ethan Nwaneri, in his first England squad. The 17-year-old midfielder has been making waves in the football world with his impressive performances, most notably in Arsenal’s 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.

Nwaneri’s standout performance against PSV saw him score the second goal of the match, becoming the third-youngest goalscorer in a Champions League knockout phase match. His goal, assisted by fellow breakout star Myles Lewis-Skelly, showcased his exceptional talent and composure on the big stage.

Wayne Rooney, a Manchester United legend, and Daniel Sturridge, a former Liverpool star, have both expressed their admiration for Nwaneri’s abilities and believe he is ready for the senior England squad. Speaking on Amazon Prime Video, Sturridge said, “I hope he gets in the squad because he has been incredible. Sometimes as former England players and pundits, we do heap pressure on young players, but looking at him, is he ready? Is he showing the qualities that he deserves to be in and around it? I believe so”.

Rooney agreed with Sturridge, saying, “I think he is definitely ready for his first England call-up.” Over the last couple of years with England, we’ve seen players getting an opportunity who haven’t deserved it. That’s my opinion. I think Nwaneri, he’s showing he’s got the temperament and the right attitude to be in that squad. If he keeps doing what he’s doing, he’ll have a great chance”.

gettyimages 2202741534 612x612 1 — EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – MARCH 4: Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal celebrates 0-2 during the UEFA Champions League match between PSV v Arsenal at the Philips Stadium on March 4, 2025 in Eindhoven Netherlands (Photo by Geert van Erven/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Nwaneri’s breakthrough campaign has been a crucial factor for Arsenal, especially during an injury crisis that has seen key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz sidelined. His strong form has also led to Raheem Sterling being benched in most Arsenal games.