STERLING ON THE RISE

RAHEEM STERLING insists a tough first season at Manchester City has given him a harder edge.

The England forward accepts he has struggled for consistency since moving to the Etihad – and that a lack of form and serious groin injury left him with work to do to make Roy Hodgson’s team for the Euros.

But Sterling, targeted by rival fans for the way he forced his £49million departure from Liverpool last summer and criticised for failing to make his mark in City’s squad of superstars, believes he has emerged a better player.

And, while he was careful not to blame Manuel Pellegrini for his troubles at City, the way the 21-year-old praised Hodgson for getting the best out of him spoke volumes.

“I’ve learned quite a bit from my first year at City,” said Sterling.

“I haven’t scored as many goals or assisted as many goals as I’ve wanted to, and it’s been hard to get into the team, but I’m definitely improving, especially mentally. That’s the most important thing to me.”

While Sterling struggled to deliver at City, it is clear he responds well to the England boss.

There were signs that the 21-year-old is finding his form as England beat Australia 2-1 at the Stadium of Light on Friday night, and Sterling said: “It’s really positive when the manager tells you every time you get the ball that he wants you to go forward.

“That’s something I’m relishing and something I enjoy.”