RUSSIA 2018: City players’ Group stage schedule
Squad role: Admired for his pace and direct approach, Raheem Sterling is a key component in the Three Lions’ attacking contingent.
Operating either alongside or just behind the main striker, the forward is employed in a more central role than he occupies at club level.
Mainly utilised on the right wing, he enjoyed a superb season with City - both on a collective and individual basis - helping the Blues to a third Premier League title and League Cup success, bagging 23 goals and creating 17 assists in 46 appearances in all competitions.
Though yet to score, the 23-year-old has made his mark in Russia already, claiming an assist in the 6-1 triumph over Panama with a neat flick into the path of Jesse Lingard. He was also involved in John Stones’ second goal of the game, seeing his header well-saved by Jaime Penedo before his teammate converted the rebound.
England manager Gareth Southgate has spoken of the ‘major role’ Sterling holds in his plans, also hailing his mental strength as a vital and commendable trait.
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International highlights: Since making his international debut in November 2012, Sterling has clocked up 40 appearances for his country.
This summer’s tournament in Russia is his second World Cup, having been included in Roy Hodgson’s 23-man squad for the 2014 competition. He made three appearances.
He has netted two goals for England’s senior side (both in 2015) but has experienced scoring in a World Cup with the Three Lions’ Under-17s with a memorable effort against Rwanda at the 2011 tournament in Mexico.
He created three assists during qualification for the current World Cup and has created seven in total during his senior international career.
