RAHEEM STERLING IS AN INCREDIBLE PERSON

PEP ON HIS CITY STAR AND RACISM-

RAHEEM STERLING has been hailed as “an incredible human being” by Pep Guardiola for speaking out about his racist hell.

Sterling has detailed the extent of the vile treatment he has received after the Manchester City star was allegedly racially abused by some Chelsea fans at Stamford Bridge. Gary Neville claims Sterling raised the issue with him at Euro 2016 when he was with England and says his treatment has been “vicious.” Guardiola praised him for having the courage to highlight the problem and says society must do more to tackle racism. “He’s an incredible person,” said the City boss, speaking for the first time since Sterling revealed he was targeted at Chelsea. “He’s an incredible human being. It’s tough to understand today what happened years ago in the whole history of black people.

“You have to protect them, how equal we are, all together. It’s tough in the 21st century to still be in this position, to have problems with diversity. We have to be better, everyone.”

Guardiola claims racism is an issue for the whole of society and not just football.

“It’s everywhere,” said the Catalan. “People focus on football, but it’s not just football.

“You think in football we would be safe, but racism is everywhere. What happens today, how we treat immigrants and refugees.

“That’s why we have to fight every day. I appreciate what Chelsea did. If it happened in my club, we should do the same. We have to fight for human rights to make a better society for the future. Today it’s dangerous, not just here in England, but all across Europe.”

Sterling blamed sections of the media for contributing to the problem, claiming they are biased in their reporting of black players.

Guardiola (right) says the forward has heeded his advice to have a lower profile on social media and says he has matured. “I spoke with him when I arrived, especially, and he was active on social media and Instagram,” he said.

“I told him to protect his private life and he did that. He’s less active than when he was young.

“He’s more mature, on and off the pitch. He has two kids.

“Hopefully the criticism is when he plays s**t, he plays bad, that would be perfect. Everyone is exposed, the managers, the players, everyone around the world.

“But for the colour of his skin... believe me that’s ridiculous and that’s why we have to protect everyone.”

Leroy Sane also praised Sterling for having the strength of character to handle the abuse and he has been in sparkling form, scoring nine goals and making six assists for City this season.

The Germany star applauded Sterling for being able to perform at such a high level, despite his treatment.

“I think it’s sad it happens still,” said the winger.

“We all support Raheem and are on his side.

“He’s a strong guy, a good guy. He knows how to handle it and he’s not letting it get him down.

“He’s focused on playing good football, like the game against Hoffenheim, and that’s the most important thing.”