Sterling has been in brilliant form for Manchester City but has often been criticised playing for England Action Images via Reuters/Carl RecineAt some point before, or after, today’s draw for the World Cup someone will mention to Gareth Southgate the wealth of attacking riches England are perceived to have at their disposal. Harry Kane and Dele Alli will probably be mentioned by an envious rival coach and the England manager will nod politely and smile back. But what about Raheem Sterling, arguably the best player in the country right now? I went through a similar thing because when I played for Liverpool, they played the type of football that suited me. England didn’tContrast the electrifying, match-defining performances Sterling is routinely producing for Manchester City right now and his most recent contributions for England (hauled off at half-time against Malta, dropped for Slovakia and recalled, but substituted, versus Slovenia) and the difference is stark if not unexpected.

Source: The Times December 01, 2017 12:00 UTC