Chelsea and England star Raheem Sterling was absent from his nation's round of 16 World Cup tie with Senegal on Sunday evening. The 27-year-old has ben a stalwart in the Three Lions team since making his debut at a young age, but it was confirmed that his absence from the clash was due to family matters.
While his club form has been questionable, Gareth Southgate has placed his trust into Sterling from the start of the tournament. The former Manchester City star has managed to claim a goal and an assist in his opening group stage matches, but won't be able to add to that in the round of 16.
It remains to be seen whether he will be involved for the rest of the tournament as things develop, with Sterling returning to England to be with his family. However, Southgate has revealed how he has tried to help the forward during a difficult situation, many miles away from the situation.
