Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson has criticised Raheem Sterling, claiming the England international is ‘getting it wrong’ at Anfield.
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The 20-year-old has been the centre of a furore at the Merseyside giants this summer, following comments made by his agent.
Aidy Ward insisted that regardless of the contract Liverpool offered his client, Sterling would not sign a new deal with Brendan Rodgers’s side and is seeking a move away from Anfield [Express].
The forward has been linked to the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea [both Daily Star], Manchester United [The Guardian], Real Madrid [Sky Sports] and Bayern Munich [Bild].
However, Manchester City are favourites to sign the forward and, according to the Daily Mail, are considering an improved third bid for the England star.
The Citizens have already seen two offers rejected for the dazzling attacker, but appear intent on securing their man.
Lawrenson, speaking to BBC Sport, has criticised Sterling for turning his back on Liverpool and has accused the forward—as well as many young players today—of chasing money rather than taking a measured approach to their careers.
“Look at Raheem Sterling at Liverpool. He is the perfect example of getting it wrong,” the former Ireland international began.
“He has decided he doesn’t want to play for Liverpool. He said it is not about the money. Why would he want to leave Liverpool? Only the season before last they nearly won the league. What is that about? Where is he getting that advice from?”
Lawrenson—who played for Liverpool between 1981 and 1988—reckons that Sterling’s motivations are a typical example of the ills of the modern game.
“The moment these lads show any innate ability they get too much money too early I’m afraid,” he concluded.
“Before these kids hit the money trail, they want it absolutely. The problem is as soon as they get their first deal, unless they have been brought up properly to respect things like that, they have no chance.”
Last season, Sterling managed 35 Premier League appearances for the Reds, contributing seven goals and seven assists as Liverpool missed out on Champions League football.