Sven-Goran Eriksson has suggested that Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling shouldn’t start for England at the World Cup and could be a great option off the bench.
There’s a lot of intrigue around the kind of role Sterling will play for Gareth Southgate’s side at the World Cup in Qatar.
He was definitely England’s standout player at the last major international tournament, scoring three goals as they finished runners-up at the Euros. The 27-year-old has more England caps than any other player in the squad, too.
However, the attacker doesn’t go into the World Cup in the same kind of blistering form as some of his teammates.
Sterling has scored five goals in 19 appearances this season since joining Chelsea, with his recent performances far from his highest level.
Sterling shouldn’t start for England
Former England manager Eriksson isn’t sure of the Chelsea winger should start in the best XI in Qatar.
When discussing Sterling with VAVEL, Eriksson said: “I think it’s very much dependent on the form the players are in currently, which might not help him. Raheem Sterling has incredible pace, and one against one he can dribble and win games for England, but he can also do this from the bench.”
It would be a brave call from Southgate to leave out a player with the kind of experience and quality of Sterling.
In our view, the Chelsea wide man will be in line to start at least a couple of England’s group matches.
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him quickly find his mojo again when he puts on the Three Lions shirt because there’s something about representing his country that gets the best out of him.
His understanding and relationship on the pitch with captain Harry Kane are also important factors to consider.
Jermaine Jenas recently said he thinks Southgate will “100 per cent” start Sterling at the World Cup.
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