Rodgers wants Sterling protected from hype
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers wants Raheem Sterling to be protected from hype.
The 19-year-old winger has been a revelation for club and country this season, helping Liverpool overcome the loss of the talismanic Luis Suarez, who was sold to Barcelona.
While Sterling's talent is clear for all to see, Rodgers doesn't want his player to be saddled with an unfair burden of England's hopes.
Protection
The Northern Irishman said: "I think he needs to be protected. I have seen it over the years. He is a wonderful talent, he is doing great for Liverpool but there are still a lot of things he needs to learn and he knows that and is a mature boy for his age.
"He has grown into a wonderful young man and his consistency and performances are there and the period he has been in the team has been exceptional.
"I expect him to keep progressing but in terms of where he is at I think we need to be careful.
"Raheem will make mistakes, he will have bad games but he will also have outstanding games and it is keeping the calmness with him because he still has a way to go.
"England know as well as anyone they need a team so they don't have to focus just on Raheem."
Source: PA Sport
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