Raheem gets rough justice

RAHEEM STERLING has lifted the lid on the dirty tricks he was subjected to during England’s win over Colombia.

Jordan Henderson was butted in the first half, while Colombia’s players tried to scuff up the penalty spot before Harry Kane put England ahead, having been jumped on in the area.

Sterling had Yerry Mina riding on his back (above) and at half-time he was barged into by one of the Colombian coaches.

“There were a couple of times when I went over for a drinks break and he kept saying something,” said Sterling of his coach clash. “I don’t speak Spanish so I didn’t understand but then there was half-time too.

“I just remember running in and someone stepped in front of me. I just looked back at him.

“But we knew their game plan and exactly what they were trying to do.

“We knew what would get thrown at us and that was kind of silly from him.

“They’re a physical team. At one point, someone was on my back.

“Then, there was one of their guys who had a hold of my ribs. I don’t know how that was even possible but he had hold of my ribs.

“I thought we dealt with the situation really well. They were trying to do everything they could to get into our heads but we kept cool heads and that’s the most important thing.”

Colombia captain Radamel Falcao has accused American referee Mark Geiger of being biased towards England.

The South Americans conceded 23 of the 36 fouls in an ill-tempered match.

But the former Chelsea and Manchester United striker said: “The referee disturbed us a lot, in the 50-50 plays, he always made the calls in favour of England.

“This situation was undermining us. He didn’t act with the same criteria for both teams.

“When in doubt he always went to the England side. It’s shameful that this happens in the round of 16 of a World Cup.”