Liverpool legend hails Guardiola influence on Sterling

Joe Williams

Liverpool legend Ian Rush thinks Pep Guardiola has “done something very special” for Raheem Sterling since his move to Manchester City.

Sterling swapped Anfield for the Etihad Stadium in July 2015 for an initial £44million and the England international has since gone on to make 132 appearances for the club in all competitions.

He endured a poor first six months at City but has found his feet under Guardiola, who seems to be getting the best out of the 23-year-old winger.

“He’s been absolutely amazing,” Rush told the Evening Standard. “I knew Raheem when he was 15, 16 and I knew he was always going to be amazing. He was so quick.

“Since he’s gone to Manchester City, he’s come on. Under Guardiola, he’s improved tremendously. He’s something very special.

“He’ll be very dangerous but if you look at when he’s played against Liverpool, he hasn’t been at his best. Guardiola has done something very special for him.

“Under Brendan Rodgers he wasn’t quite experienced enough but after a tough first six months at City, he’s overcome that and is number one in England’s team.”