For all the talk of Raheem Sterling leaving Liverpool over his reportedly fractious relationship with Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, the 20-year old took time out to thank the Northern Irishman after completing his protracted £49mil move to Premier League rivals Manchester City.
“I’d like to thank Rafa Benitez for taking me to Liverpool as a 15 year-old – that was a massive step for me and a new challenge. Also to Kenny Dalglish for showing such faith in me and putting me in at such a young age,” explained the City attacker, before moving on to the current Liverpool manager. “I want to thank Brendan Rodgers for giving me a chance and an opportunity in the first team, and giving me a real chance to cement a place in the first team and show the world my talents.”
With two bids in June rejected for the promising winger, the Anfield outfit were able to hold out for as close as possible to the £50mil they valued him at, always keeping in mind that Queens Park Rangers, who were insistent in a sell-on clause after letting him leave Loftus Road for Merseyside, would be picking up a cool 20% of the proceeds. That, of course, is of little interest to Sterling who is looking forward to life at the Etihad Stadium.
“I’m just glad it’s all over and done with and I can’t wait,” he said. “The more quality players around you, the more quality it brings out in you,” continued Sterling. “The thing that excites me the most is the world-class squad we have and knowing we have a team that is capable of winning things year in, year out.”
Just how big of a role he’ll play in any silverware they do pick up is anyone’s guess.
