PEP: FEARLESS STERLING HAS WORLD AT FEET

PEP GUARDIOLA believes the sky is the limit for Raheem Sterling after declaring the England star is no longer ‘scared’ in front of goal. Sterling scored twice and made three assists as the champions routed Southampton 6-1 at the Etihad to soar back to the top of the table, two points clear of nearest rivals Chelsea and Liverpool. The 23-year-old’s performance against the Saints demonstrated why City are so keen to tie him to a new long-term contract worth up to £300,000 a week. Sterling fired 23 goals under Guardiola last season after scoring 10 times in his first campaign at City. He already has six this term and the City boss believes he has learned to be braver in front of goal. Asked what has changed about his game, Guardiola replied: ‘His head. The first season, he was scared. He was looking to pass the ball. He was looking for his mate. ‘We spoke about that and said, “Try to score goals, it doesn’t matter if you miss it — be aggressive”. I have the feeling he is now enjoying scoring goals and making assists. ‘He is becoming a winning player and he is just 23 years old. We cannot forget that. If he has his mind to become a better player and think, “It is not enough what I am like as a football player”, he can reach whatever he wants.’ Guardiola is sure Sterling still has room for improvement, adding: ‘He’s in incredible form but I feel he can improve. He is a top player but still is so young to be considered in the world’s best players.’