Raheem Sterling says City's 5-0 victory at West Ham was a perfect start to the season - and the hat-trick hero wants more of the same going forward.

Raheem Sterling says City’s 5-0 victory at West Ham was a perfect start to the season - and the hat-trick hero wants more of the same going forward.

Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring for Pep Guardiola’s side before Sterling netted an unstoppable treble, with Sergio Aguero also in the goals. 

The performance sent a message of intent to the rest of the Premier League and Sterling says City have set the benchmark for the season.

“It feels good but the important thing today was starting well as a team and getting the win and the three points,” the England winger told CityTV. “That’s what we’ve done and it’s a great way to start the season.

“It’s always good to score goals but at the same time you want to get a run of clean sheets going as well and long may it continue.”

Asked if he is targeting the golden boot this season, the 24-year-old said: “It’s early days. It’s about enjoying it and keeping winning – that’s the most important thing!”

Hear more from Sterling in the video above.