Liverpool legend John Barnes insists Raheem Sterling deserves more credit than he’s currently getting at Manchester City.
Sterling has managed to turn things around at the Etihad this season having endured a tough start to the campaign. The England international found himself out of favour with Pep Guardiola and admitted he was open to an Etihad exit.
The 27-year-old has since enjoyed more game-time and will no doubt be a key player in City’s efforts to win a Premier League and Champions League double. While speculation continues over his future, Sterling admitted earlier this week he’s now happier with his position at the club.
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"At the minute I'm just happy to be playing, happy to be contributing with the team," he said. "I think that's the most important thing. At this period, I think it would be selfish of me to speak of any contract situation and I'm just happy to be playing football and see where we are at the end of the season."
Sterling has faced criticism throughout his career, whether it has been at club or international level, but has managed to consistently bounce back. Barnes admits he's one of his biggest fans and the former Liverpool star believes he deserves much more credit than he receives.
“Raheem Sterling deserves more credit despite already getting plenty of it,” Barnes told BonusCodeBets. “When it comes to Sterling, we always hear from his detractors because bad news sells, but he gets plenty of credit from the people who matter.
“His club and Manchester City fans love him, so regardless of what outsiders say, he deserves all the credit that he gets – and more.
“The fact that he’s seven goals away from Wayne Rooney’s Champions League record goal tally for an Englishman shows the kind of career he’s had - and he’s still only 27. The people who know him best are the right people and are crediting him.”
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