Ex-Liverpool defender and assistant manager Phil Thompson has now said that England international Raheem Sterling could leave Anfield in the summer. The 20m year old winger is showing ‘all the signs that he’s ready to leave the club’, as stated by the former Red. Thompson further believes the fact that Brendan Rodgers’ side failed to qualify for the Champions League for next season might push Sterling to an exit, at the end of the current campaign.
Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea will be in the hunt for the 20-year-old. The Englishman confirmed his decision of turning down a new £90,000-a-week contract during an interview with BBC Sport and this could instigate an away move.
Thompson told the media, “I think it will be very difficult for him to stay at Liverpool now. He’s shown all the signs that he’s ready and prepared to leave the club.”
“But if he was to stay I would like to think his role will be on the flanks – I don’t think Liverpool can even contemplate him being their main striker next season, because he’s not a natural goalscorer.”
“Liverpool need somebody who’s going to get you at least 15 league goals and maybe 25 overall – Raheem Sterling is not going to get you that.”
“He’s done well for the team – he’s helped them out up front this season, but I think everyone can see that he’s not quite strong enough for it.”
“So, no matter where he is next season, I think his best role is out wide rather than through the middle.”