Rodgers tells FA to keep calm

Even though the Reds have experienced their worst start in fifty years this term, there has been one positive to take over the past few weeks with Raheem Sterling making a huge impression in the top flight. The 17-year-old has been one of the star performers for Rodgers yet despite this, the Liverpool boss has asked England chiefs not to include him in the Under-21 squad just yet.

Having signed from QPR for an initial fee of £600,000 back in 2010, there have been high hopes for the winger over recent years. However, it’s not until now that Sterling has realised his potential, with the player already notching up four appearances this term. He is slowly staring to establish himself as an Anfield regular and having started the last two Premier League games, it’s no surprise to see expectations high.

In a bid to protect him, Rodgers has attempted to keep Sterling in the Under-19 category for now. The player has not yet featured for this age group yet following his frantic start to the campaign, there have been suggestions to fast-track him straight through to Stuart Pearce’s Under-21 setup. The Reds boss says that he has been successful with his aims and stated that he has made such a request in a bid to keep the winger’s feet on the ground.

He told the press, “It is all about individual needs. It might look great on the back pages that he is involved in the Under-21s, but the reality is that this is a kid who has made great strides over the last few weeks. You have seen his quality, courage and attitude in games — it has been fantastic. But for the moment, let’s just stay calm. I think with young players, you have to be careful. They can be elevated above their station too quickly.”