Anti-racial crusader in football, Raheem Sterling has warned Liverpool that it will not be easy for the defending champion to let slip the trophy as the season enters the homestretch and the last match of the season.
The talented player who ha been speaking and campaigning against racialism being a victim of the same was speaking after he won the Writers Association award.
He was recognised for a fine season on and off the field as he picked up the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award weeks after bagging another one for exemplary community service.
Sterling’s focus now switches to Sunday’s final day clash with Brighton, where a win for City will see them retain the title. Liverpool faces Wolves at Anfield and will be ready to pounce if City does slip up.
Sterling collected 62 per cent of the poll by FWA members and beat Liverpool centre-back Virgil Van Dijk to the award will be hoping to get the better of the Dutchman once again this Sunday.
“We know how big an occasion it is,” Sterling said. “But I’d much rather be on our side, to know if we win the game, it’s ours.
“It will be a tough day, that’s for sure. We know Brighton won’t just sit there and let us score goals.”They’re safe and it is going to be a really tough day, to be honest with you, but it is one I am really looking forward to.”
On his award win, Sterling added: “It’s a massive achievement, a massive honour, “To be recognised is always a lovely feeling, especially by the writers. It makes it even more special.
“It is an award that I will cherish, especially with the people that have won it before me so I am really, really glad and proud.
“As you get older, you mature and understand things much better and I think now people can see me for who I am.
“Role model, not in terms of saying you set out to be a role model but just in terms of leading by example. “You have young kids who do follow you and do look up to you, and you need to try and set the right example for them and the next generation coming through for sure”.
“Certain subjects that I have spoken about this season has been touchy but at the same time I thought it was needed and I tried to do my best to address it in a positive (way) and not come across aggressive or ignorant.”