Raheem Sterling didn’t expect to be left out of the Chelsea squad for today’s Premier League clash with Manchester City, according to reports.
The England international has struggled for consistency ever since his move to Stamford Bridge two years ago.
Sterling has been omitted by new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who will be hoping to guide his side to victory at the first time of asking.
Cole Palmer, Nicholas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku have all been picked ahead of the former City and Liverpool star.
Raheem Sterling didn’t expect to be left out of the Chelsea squad for today’s Premier League clash with Manchester City
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And the Daily Mail say Sterling’s snub was ‘expected’ from his point of view, with the 29-year-old previously believing he’d be picked in the squad.
A pre-match interview with the England star was featured on the Blues’ website earlier this week.
And manager Maresca dubbed Sterling an ‘important player’ during pre-season, hinting he was part of his plans.
The report says Sterling is now seeking clarity on his position at Chelsea, with a move away from west London potentially on the cards.
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His camp have released a statement saying the Premier League veteran remains ‘committed’ to the club.
They said: “Raheem Sterling is contracted to Chelsea Football Club for the next three years.
“He returned to England two weeks early to conduct individual training, and has had a positive pre-season under the new coach, who he has developed a good working relationship with.
“He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level for Chelsea FC and the fans, who he holds in high regard, and given his inclusion in official club pre-match material this week, our expectation was that Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity.
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“As a camp, we have always had positive dialogue with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC in relation to Raheem’s future at the club, so we look forward to gaining clarity on the situation.
“Until then, we will continue to support Raheem’s desire to start the new season positively.”
Sterling featured in six matches for Chelsea during pre-season.
But with the Blues so stacked in attacking positions, he could quit before the transfer window shuts later this month.
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Raheem Sterling won’t be involved in today’s Premier League clash between Chelsea and Man City
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Chelsea have gone strong for today’s match as they look to put City to the sword.
Robert Sanchez starts in goal, with Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella making up their back four.
Moises Caicedo, Roman Lavia and Enzo Fernandez start in midfield.
And Palmer, Jackson and Nkunku make up their front three.
Raheem Sterling is now set to seek clarity on his Chelsea future after being snubbed for Man City Premier League clash
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As for City, Ederson starts behind Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.
Rico Lewis and Mateo Kovacic partner up in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva starting further ahead.
Savinho, Jeremy Doku and Erling Haaland complete their attacking trident.