Raheem Sterling Injury: Manchester City Star Withdraws from England Squad

Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling has withdrawn from the England squad due to injury, with Crystal Palace's Andros Townsend replacing him.

News of the 21-year-old’s decision came via City's official Twitter feed on Monday. Tom Williams of AFP confirmed Townsend would step in for the upcoming matches against Malta and Slovenia:

"

Andros Townsend replaces injured Raheem Sterling in England squad.

— Tom Williams (@tomwfootball) October 3, 2016"

After moving from Liverpool to City for a reported £49 million in the summer of 2015, Sterling endured an inconsistent time at the Etihad Stadium in his first season. However, new manager Pep Guardiola has reinvigorated the winger since taking over at the club, and the England man looks poised to play a much more significant role under his watch.

Indeed, at his best, Sterling brings a lot to the table. The forward is an exciting presence with the ball at his feet, able to dash beyond opposition defenders with his silky dribbling and turn of pace. 

City do have a lot of options in the final third to call upon, even with Kevin De Bruyne also currently sidelined. David Silva is capable of slotting into a wider position, while Jesus Navas can offer a direct presence on the wing. Summer signings Leroy Sane and Nolito also provide penetration from this area of the pitch.

England's attack, by comparison, doesn't possess quite so much depth, although Townsend has enjoyed a strong start to the season with Palace and will be keen to impress.

The 2016-17 campaign is an important one for Sterling. Last season was always going to be a testing one for the youngster after making such a massive move in his career—though there will be expectations for him to kick on given the huge fee the club paid for him. It’s imperative he stays fit to expedite that process.