LIVERPOOL LEGEND STEVEN Gerrard has warned wantaway forward Raheem Sterling that he risks becoming “a squad player” if he leaves in search of a bigger club.
The young England international’s refusal to sign a new contract at Anfield has left both him and the Reds with big decisions this summer but Gerrard is concerned that Sterling’s ambition could cause his development to stall.
The 20-year-old has excelled as a regular starter under Brendan Rodgers, a luxury that the LA Galaxy-bound midfielder feels might not be available further up the ladder.
“For the player’s sake and for all of us fans out there, he needs to make the decision quickly,” Gerrard said at a BT Sport event.
“I hope he stays. I think, for his development as a player, he has a fantastic manager to look after him and a great set of team-mates. I think it’s important he plays week in, week out and keeps trying to learn and strive to become a world-class player.
“The frustrating thing for me would be if he went to a club and became a squad player and just another number and he didn’t have that chance to progress. That’s the risk. What will be frustrating for me is if he does that.”
