EURO ROUND-UP ‘Raheem Sterling could return to hurt Liverpool’
Raheem Sterling could prove the thorn in former club Liverpool’s side when Manchester City head to Anfield, says Danny Higginbotham. The clash between the sides, who are both unbeaten and level on 19 points after seven games holds on Sunday.
Discussing Sterling’s possible role in the match, Higginbotham told Sky Sports News: “He’s matured and if you look under [Pep] Guardiola, there’s just a few minor changes that he’s done.
“Now you see his movement and he’s always looking to get across and into the box. What he does really well now is with his first touch, he used to put his foot on the ball but now he gets it and gets it out of his feet, play the ball and he’s on his way again.
“He’s a player in great form going back to his old club. You’re going to be a better player when you’re playing with better players.
“When he plays with Manchester City he’s probably playing with better players than he does with England, therefore he gets more chances made for him and is afforded more space.”
Higginbotham also feels a crucial component for the Reds could be midfielder Naby Keita, who Liverpool have confirmed is fine after going off injured against Napoli in midweek.
“He is a big player for Liverpool, especially at home.
“He is the link between midfield and attack and his movement with [Roberto] Firmino is huge for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
“They switch positions and create space for the likes of [Mohamed] Salah and [Sadio] Mane - and if they come wide there’s acres for the full-backs to run in to.”