Behind the upbeat words, a veiled threat.
Oh to be a fly on Brendan Rodger’s man cave wall.
The Liverpool coach has revealed want-away [or want-a-more-cash] midfielder Raheem Sterling has been over to his house for chats on football, parenting and life in general.
The Northern Irishman is determined to keep onto Sterling – the club’s top scorer this season – despite a contract and wages wrangle that could yet see the 21-year-old jump ship.
Rodgers believes Sterling has ‘been through a lot’ over the past two seasons. He sees the young attacker coming through a mid-season dip in form and has told him his career would be best served by staying at Anfield.
‘We had a good chat and it was about making him comfortable as well,’ he said. ‘It’s not just football – it’s parenting, helping him and making sure everything is all right outside of his football.’
For all the kindly Uncle support from Rodgers, he is keen to show he will not be cowed by excessive wage demands.
‘We’ve made that clear from the beginning and the owners are very much supportive of that. Raheem won’t be going anywhere this summer, even if there’s not a deal agreed…
‘We’re still pretty relaxed on it. The club will meet again with Raheem’s representatives and reinforce it [the message].’
Rodgers understands that ‘everyone wants to win trophies’ and play in competitions such as the Champions League.
While Liverpool look certain to miss out on the Champions League next season, Rodgers declares that Liverpool ‘is the best club for him at the moment’.
Sterling has a choice to make – sign an improved contract this season or stick with his [estimated] £100,000 a week deal and leave on a free transfer next summer.
Hat-tip: Guardian
