Raheem Sterling has been one of the most important players for Gareth Southgate during his tenure as coach of England. However, the forward will not start against France in the quarterfinals of the Qatar 2022 World Cup and these are the reasons why.
England remain one of the favorites to win the World Cup in Qatar 2022. The famous Three Lions conquered the tournament at home in 1966 but have not reached the final again. After that, their best performances were the semi-finals in Italy 1990 and Russia 2018.
For the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, their roster is star-studded with the likes of Harry Kane, Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling and Jack Grealish. During the first round of the tournament, England dominated Group B. They beat Iran (6-2), drew with the United States (0-0) and beat Wales (3-0). Then, in the Round of 16, Gareth Southgate’s side beat Senegal 3-0.
Raheem Sterling was one of England’s key players, especially during the group stage. He started the first two matches and scored a goal against Iran. He got some rest in the third match against Wales, but then a shock incident threatened his presence at the World Cup in Qatar 2022. Here’s why he won’t feature in the quarter-final against France and whether or not he’s back with the squad.
Why is Raheem Sterling not starting in England vs France?
In the Round of 16, Raheem Sterling didn’t play against Senegal after he was informed that his family had been burgled by robbers at his home back in the UK. Sterling immediately left the team to ensure his family was safe in Surrey. No one knew exactly if he would return to Qatar.
Though Raheem Sterling is not starting for England against France, the 28-year old is indeed available to come from the bench. That’s extraordinary for coach Gareth Southgate considering the previous scenario. Phil Foden gets the call again as starter, but Sterling is ready to help the cause.
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