WORLDIE CLASS

Screamer v Toon shows Raheem’s ready to end England goal drought says Stones

RAHEEM STERLING has been backed by John Stones to end his England goal drought.

Sterling has not scored for the Three Lions since netting in the Euro 2016 qualifying win over Estonia in October 2015 and is a favourite target for abuse.

Stones claims the stick is unfair and says he showed his quality with his worldie in Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Newcastle.

“Raz was unbelievable in the World Cup,” he said.

“I know he got a lot of negativity towards him, but what he brought to the team – he terrorised defences and that got overshadowed.

“He has such a great mentality, to keep coming out every week and doing what he does, and brush it all aside. On a personal level, I was upset for Raheem because what he brings to this team, as we

saw with his goal against Newcastle, is immense. “And it’s not just about goals, he creates chances, takes on his full-back – he does everything right and more. “I hope if we do play for England one goes in and then that is that, we can put it all to bed and he can go on to show the world how good he is.” England host Spain in their opening UEFA Nations League game on Saturday before facing Switzerland in a friendly and Stones says they want to continue the feelgood mood from the World Cup. “We want to carry on the momentum from the World Cup, that good feeling,” said the centre-half. “I think we changed people’s mindset and opinions. I wanted to make people proud of England again and we want to do that against Spain.”