Sterling joins Van Persie at Feyenoord

CHELSEA outcast Raheem Sterling has joined Dutch giants Feyenoord until the end of the season.

The former England winger was left kicking his heels at Chelsea, despite being on a five-year deal worth £325,000 a week, and had his contract torn up last month.

He will now work under manager Robin van Persie, the former Arsenal and Manchester United striker. Sterling, 31, said: ‘As a free agent I’ve had, for the first time in a long time, the opportunity to control the next step in my career. ‘I wanted to take my time to speak with clubs and their head coaches to better understand the role they envisioned for me and ensure I can add real value in this next chapter. ‘Having spoken in great detail with CEO Dennis te Kloese and Robin, I’m confident Feyenoord is a place I can be happy and establish myself as a valued member of the team. ‘Playing abroad is a whole new challenge for me and one I’m ready to embrace.’