Raheem Sterling Reportedly Set for Huge New Liverpool Contract
Raheem Sterling is set to be rewarded for a memorable season with a new contract at Liverpool.
The improving winger, who has become a key player under Brendan Rodgers, is getting ready to pen a deal worth in excess of his current £30,000-per-week agreement—his second contract in under 18 months—according to John Cross of the Mirror:
"The winger, 19, has potentially played his way into England’s World Cup starting line-up. But the Reds have also been hugely impressed with Sterling’s focus and attitude off the pitch as he has concentrated on furthering his career.
He has moved an hour away from Liverpool city centre to resist any temptations and the club have been impressed with his dedication.
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A mark of Sterling's metaphoric rise came during the Reds' 3-2 win over Manchester City. Currently battling for their first domestic title in 24 years, it was Sterling who thrust Liverpool into the lead with a shift of his weight inside the opposition's box.
He stood still for a moment, shimmied to his right and slotted into an open net before the outfoxed Joe Hart and Vincent Kompany knew what hit them. It was a moment of real class, and indeed, is likely to be key in the club's pursuit for of Premier League glory.
Sterling's confidence never ceases to shine through. He is rapid on the ball and keeps possession close to his feet in order to suck opponents in.
Despite his tiny size—standing at around 5'6"—Sterling is more than equipped to brush defenders aside with his acceleration. Such attributes are not something that can be taught, as like English compatriot Theo Walcott, Sterling flaunts a natural ability to inject incisive pace into attacks.
The starlet has scored seven goals and assisted three in 29 games this campaign, per WhoScored.com. It would be a travesty if he isn't selected in Roy Hodgson's World Cup squad, either as a winger or in the No. 10 slot he has dominated across recent weeks.
Barney Ronay of The Guardian believes Rodgers' decision to give Sterling such responsibility in the latter role could spell good things for the national setup:
"The No10 may be a staple from schoolboy levels in other countries. But English football does not often produce this kind of player, just as it is almost unheard of for teenagers to be given such creative responsibility in a title-chasing team.
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Sterling's development is aided by the form of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, a trio who define Liverpool's relentlessly entertaining football this season. Rodgers has drilled tremendous work ethic into his team without extracting their desire to star as individuals, a factor that keeps Liverpool's best players contributing to each other's success.
In many ways, Sterling's ascension sums up everything there is to know about Rodgers and his side. Young, improving and fearless, Liverpool's prospects are looking mighty ripe for the future.
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