Great Britain's Daniel Sturridge reacts after he misses his penalty against South Korea during the Men's Quarter Final match at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, during day eight of the London 2012 Olympics.

Roberto Di Matteo gave his backing to Daniel Sturridge

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has backed Daniel Sturridge to recover from missing the vital penalty for Team GB against South Korea.

The forward was given a boost when he was named in Roy Hodgson’s England side for the friendly against Euro 2012 conquerors, Italy, on Wednesday.

“He is part of the squad, of the team, and still has a lot to give,” said Di Matteo.

“He still has a lot to learn as well but we are hopeful he can develop even more and become a great player for us.

“He did very well to recover from his illness in a short period of time. He is a very exciting player and it’s great for him to be involved in the England squad.

“He has the ability to play in more than one position. He made it quite public he likes to play as a number nine but there is competition, which is good, and we will see as the season starts who is going to play.”