The winger starred in a sensational 5-0 win, as the Premier League Champions kicked-off the 2019/20 in style, continuing where we left off in our remarkable Fourmidables campaign.
READ: Sterling hits hat-trick in rampant PL opener
WATCH: Inside City | Deadline Day Special
GALLERY: Sterling secures perfect league start
Sterling, carrying on his excellent pre-season form, produced a Man of the Match display to hit the Hammers, bagging his 50th league goal for City in the process.
Although he admitted Pep Guardiola’s men were a little slow to start, Sterling hailed his side’s ruthlessness and – ever humble – asserted he was happier with the triumph than his treble.
“The most important thing was to start well and get the win,” he declared.
“Once the second goal went in, I thought we were brilliant.
“It was quite difficult in the first half. Some of our touches were sloppy but once the team got into a rhythm, the passes came and more chances came.”
On his hat-trick, Sterling credited his teammates’ efforts.
“With the players we have here, there are competitions in training every day,” he continued.
“It’s a joy to put the ball in the back of the net.”
Sterling was unfortunate not to have had an assist added to his name with a goal ruled out for offside by VAR.
While disappointed in the moment, Sterling welcomed the introduction of the technology.
“At the end of the day, as long as the decision is right, that is all that matters,” he stated.
Fresh from his Copa America success and Community Shield-winning penalty, Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring at the London Stadium to ignite City’s 2019/20 campaign.
He expressed his delight, adding he feels buoyed by his new squad number.
“I am so happy for the match,” he smiled.
“I feel good with this number.
“It was the time for me to change in my career.”
