Sturridge hints at Chelsea stay

Chelsea forward Daniel Sturridge has expressed his desire to remain at Stamford Bridge following some very good displays in pre-season.

The England Under-21 international was tipped to spend another season on loan at Bolton, but he is now willing to fight for his place in the side.

“The manager has given me licence to express myself. I have never had that before with any manager,” Sturridge told The Independent.

“He has let me off the leash if you like. He has given me a lot more freedom than I have ever had and I will enjoy my football a lot more.”

The highly rated forward says the squad are enjoying life under Andre Villas-Boas.

“It is not just me either; everyone feels like that. He wants us to attack and not be too defensive. That is refreshing. The tour has been great. The manager has shown faith in me.”