One Chelsea player has now come out to defend Raheem Sterling after he suffered a rough time at Stamford Bridge yesterday.
Substitute yesterday Carney Chukwuemeka has told the Evening Standard that the impact the England international has had on the youngsters at the club has been crucial this season.
It was an afternoon to forget for Sterling yesterday, despite the fact that the Blues booked their place back at Wembley for the second time this season.
Sterling has tough time for Chelsea
He took a penalty out of the hands of regular taker Cole Palmer in the first half, only to see a tame effort saved with the score at 1-0.
The Englishman’s misery was compiled by a missed sitter moments later, as well as one of the worst free-kicks you are likely to see in football.
For this reason, the Stamford Bridge crowd completely turned on the attacker, and were furious when he wasn’t the first player to be substituted.
Chukwuemeka defends Sterling
While there were portions of the crowd who applauded him when he was replaced, there was certainly an air of frustration inside the stadium.
Chukwuemeka, who came off the bench to gave his side the lead late on, has come to the defence of Sterling after his rough showing.
He said: “For us youngsters – especially for me, Noni and Cole – Raheem has helped us a lot since we came here.
“He is always on us showing what we can do well and what to improve on. He is always on us, inside and outside football, Raheem is a big part of what we do. He is like my big brother.”
If he is having an impact on Palmer in particular, then his role at the club is certainly underrated right now.
The former Manchester City man continues to star for his new club, adding another goal and assist to his growing tally in what is really his first campaign as a regular starter for anyone.
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