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Sturridge ready to fight for starring role at Chelsea

Daniel Sturridge is ready to compete with Didier Drogba and Fernando Torres © PA Photos

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Chelsea forward Daniel Sturridge admits he is yet to speak to manager Andre Villas-Boas about his future at the club, but insists he is fully prepared to fight for his place in the team.

The former Manchester City youth product is back at Stamford Bridge after spending the second half of last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers - and has appeared to send a warning to the likes of Fernando Torres by claiming that "every season is a new season".

Villas-Boas has begun pre-season training with his squad ahead of the new campaign, with reports linking Sturridge with an exit from the club. The 21-year-old admits he is yet to sit down with the Portuguese and discuss his future, but has heard the 33-year-old has been impressed with his early efforts.

"We haven't spoken properly about everything with regards to myself," Sturridge told Sky Sports News. "In terms of training and other things I've been told he's pleased with me so I can't ask for anything more than that.

"I'm looking forward to the start of the season when I can show everyone what I'm capable of doing."

The presence of Torres and Didier Drogba in the squad would appear likely to limit Sturridge's first-team opportunities, but the England Under-21 international believes the slate has been wiped clean and he will have the chance to earn a starting role ahead of one or both stars.

"It's the same in every team around the world, every striker has to fight for their place," he said. "That's the thing every striker has to be prepared to do. There are no guarantees in football at any club, it doesn't matter if you're a star or not a star you have to show the manager what you are capable of.

"Every season is a new season, the past is the past, and everyone needs to show what they can do."

Never short of confidence, Sturridge believes his loan spell at the Reebok Stadium - where he scored eight goals in just 11 Premier League starts - gave him a better understanding of what is required to be a successful Premier League striker.

"First team football - money can't buy that," he noted. "I was very happy with my time there. I can never thank Bolton enough for what they've done for me. I learned a lot - little things you wouldn't realise just coming off the bench for a few minutes. To get the opportunity to play regularly was amazing for me."

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