We all grow up at different stages. Him being a kid very much justifies some of his shortcomings. Not all mind, but certainly some aspects that can only come with experience. 21 years of age falls into the kid bracket. There are exceptions of course where a player can hit the ground running at 17 and continue on an upward curve throughout their career but these are few and far between. In most cases young players will be inconsistent and have various shortcomings. For most of them they're allowed to mature as players without the gleaming spotlight of the country on their shoulders and aren't transferred for huge sums - that's Sterlings problem. We've paid the kind of money that should bring in a ready made superstar without the teething problems and Sterling isn't that.
It'll get worse because every error will now be magnified, every poor pass, loss of possession or chance missed will have him derided as 'dogshit' and 'waste of money' and his already fragile confidence will get worse. The best thing for him now is to not play any more minutes this tournament, get away for a few weeks somewhere he won't be recognised and recharge his batteries before getting back to the club and have Pep put an arm around his shoulder.
I fear for the lad though. He's being treated disgracefully by the media over the last couple of games. I hope he's got a strong family life to help him get through because it'll be hurting him.
Having millions in the bank is fuck all consolation when you're a nations scapegoat and vilified from all corners.
Thanks for your response. I do agree that we are different and that we mature at different times, however IMO though, at 21 you are no longer eligible to be still in the kid bracket and my comment was aimed at life in general and not professional sport. There are other professions whereby each and every move by professionals of similar age or younger is scrutinised and recorded.
My original point though was to posters who are using his age to protect him insofar as at what point does this argument become totally irrational as he is not new to top end football (end next season, the season after or whenever?)
Not sure about your last line though as my bank balance can be comfortably printed on the back of a postage stamp so I have no preconceived ideas what a bank statement printed on A3 Landscape to accommodate all the zeros means, but I know I, and many others would have to work a lifetime to earn what these fellas do in a year, so I am not overly sympathetic in that respect, but that's me, others may view that differently.
I do think you are correct in that it will get worse for him from now on unless another target is found by the media. He (with support) has to either face that challenge head on, and if he and his advisers don't believe he has the mental strength to overcome this, then maybe his only other option is a move abroad if he wants to continue playing at this level.
Hopefully, after the Euros this will all die down and Raheem can knuckle down preparing for next season and let's see what that brings for him.
Edit. Apologies MODs, just seen this is the Joe thread, please move to Correct thread if poss. Others, sorry for being off topic
