20 October 2023 , 21:30
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Raheem Sterling has insisted England is “still very important” as he promised to fight for a place at the Euros.
Sterling has not made Gareth Southgate ’s last two squads despite his impressive form for Chelsea this season and also being such a key figure for England. But Sterling, addressing his England absence for the first time, insists he will carry on battling for a recall with next summer’s tournament still a target.
Chelsea star Sterling said: “Of course, of course England is still very important for me. It is a massive year for England with the players we’ve got but, like every other day, you just keep working, keep striving and what will be will be.
“Mentally, it is all good. Life is great, I have a beautiful family so what more can I ask for?”
Sterling has missed out on the last two camps but has been able to channel extra energy and focus into the Raheem Sterling Foundation and one of his first projects is a link-up with London’s National Portrait Gallery.
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The Foundation has set up a programme for 30 pupils from Brent - where Sterling grew up in the shadow of Wembley Stadium - to study art and the pilot programme is designed to raise their career aspirations through art.
The Foundation is also championing 14 scholarships - seven for the University of Manchester and seven for Kings College, London - for students of black, Africa and Caribbean heritage plus also from socio-economically under-represented backgroundsSterling said: “I wouldn’t say I am giving them a chance, I’d say it is more of a different outlook. Every kid has their own dreams and aspirations. I think creativity is important. If you can tap into it, then it is good. That’s all I am trying to do.
“The small inspiration I got from an arch (Wembley) behind my house and move that to different neighbourhoods in North West London. It kind of makes me feel close to that time.
“I have always maintained it is just about creating different opportunities, you know, it might not help anyone but if you can at least try to guide people ahead of their adult years, I think that’s the focus.
“This is what my Foundation is all about - education, social mobility and creating opportunities for young people to grow."
The Foundation is also championing 14 scholarships - seven for the University of Manchester and seven for Kings College, London - for students of black, Africa and Caribbean heritage plus also from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds.