England winger joins the likes of Mario Gotze, Lionel Messi and last year’s winner Paul Pogba.
Liverpool youngster Raheem Sterling has ensured that he will finish the season with some silverware having been named the winner of European football’s Golden Boy award, the Daily Mirror reports.
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Sterling has been voted as the best European top flight player under the age of 21 by a panel of journalists following a tremendous 12 months that has seen him become one of the world’s hottest young talents.
He follows in the footsteps of the likes of Lionel Messi (2005), Sergio Aguero (2007) and World Cup final goalscorer Mario Gotze (2011).
Last year saw Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba scoop the prize and Sterling becomes the first English recipient of the award since Wayne Rooney won it back in 2004.
“It’s a great achievement to win such an award,” Sterling said.
“It’s a really happy feeling for me and my family, of course.
“Something I’ve always wanted to do is to work hard playing football and try to be recognised. I’m really grateful that people have shown me this recognition.
“It’s down to hard work. I’m really happy that people are recognising that I’m trying to work hard and do my best for this football club. I’m really grateful for this award.”
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