As expected, today’s pre-Stoke press conference was dominated by questions about Raheem Sterling and his future. Here’s what manager Brendan Rodgers had to say on the youngster and his current situation:
“Raheem has two years left on his contract and I expect him to see those through. I’m sure talks will take place over the summer. I don’t see Raheem as being unhappy. The concentration for myself is to continue to improve Raheem as a football player.”
And there’s no chance Rodgers will be dropping Sterling for this weekend’s final games of the season: “If Raheem is fit, which he is, he will be available to play on Sunday. It doesn’t change my approach to him. He’s a good kid. My relationship with him hasn’t been affected at all.”
“Liverpool supporters always back their own players. If he plays any part in the game, Raheem will get the support of our fans.”
In reference to comments made my Sterling’s agent, Aidy Ward, this week, Rodgers had this to say: “It’s difficult to comment on what others speak about. Any meetings that take place here will be dealt with internally.”
“How we like to work is to keep everything behind closed doors. We can only control what we do.”
Rodgers also hinted that the club will not be bullied into selling one of their most prised assets, taking a similar stance to when Luis Suarez was subject to interest from Arsenal:
“The ownership have shown their strength in their time here. They’ve done an incredible job to stabilise the club and point them in the right direction. Whenever they’ve had to show that strength, they’ve done that. They will show that strength again.”
Two players who have signed new deals this week, though, are Jordon Ibe and Jon Flanagan. Ibe has penned a new 5-year-deal, believed to be worth around £30,000 per week, whilst Flanagan has also signed a shorter, one year contract extension. Whwn asked for his thoughts Brendan said:
“[I’m] Delighted. Two very important players for now and for the future of the club. It allows them to concentrate on the next part of their career here.”
In reference to his squad for Sunday’s game, Rodgers has confirmed that Mario Balotelli is, once again, a doubt. Other than that “most are fit”. Steven Gerrard is also likely to play, with Rodgers claiming it’ll probably be a “huge relief” for the captain’s final game at Anfield to be out of the way.
