Former England striker Daniel Sturridge has come out in defense of Raheem Sterling, following a surprise statement released by the player’s representatives after being left out of Chelsea’s squad to face Manchester City.
Sterling’s omission from the 18-man squad was a shock, especially given his reputation as a top-class forward. Chelsea’s new boss, Enzo Maresca, defended his decision, citing tactical reasons for the exclusion.
However, Sterling’s representatives released a statement, which expressed surprise and disappointment at the player’s exclusion. The statement was released just minutes before the game kicked off, prompting a mixed reaction from pundits and fans alike.
Sky Sports pundit Sturridge, who played alongside Sterling for England and Liverpool, defended his former teammate’s ability and commitment to getting back into the Chelsea side. While he questioned the timing of the statement, he believes Sterling has the quality to make a difference for the Blues.
Daniel Sturridge has jumped to the defence of Raheem Sterling (pictured) after a statement on the back of his Chelsea dropping
Blues boss Enzo Maresca defended his decision to leave the forward out of his 18-man squad
Though he questioned the statement, Sturridge (pictured) defended his former team-mates’s abiolity
‘I have a lot of love and respect for Raheem Sterling as a football player and as a person,’ Sturridge said. ‘He’s a young brother of mine, and I believe he has the quality to make a difference for Chelsea.’
However, Sturridge did express reservations about the timing of the statement, which he felt was not ideal. ‘The timing’s not great, especially on the day of the game. But Raheem will feel he’s good enough to help Chelsea Football Club.’
Fellow pundit Micah Richards was more critical of the statement, suggesting it was released to create noise and attention. ‘We’ve all been left out, haven’t we? We’ve all wanted to put statements out, but Raheem and his team know exactly what they’re doing. They’re trying to make noise.’
Richards slammed the timing of the statement, which he felt was not helpful to the team or Sterling’s case for getting back into the side. ‘That is not going to help your teammates, and it’s probably not going to help his case of getting back into the team.’
Sturridge and Sterling played for England together for a number of years, also both lining up for Liverpool
Micah Richards, meanwhile, slammed the timing of the statement, which was releaed moments before Chelsea’s first game of the season