Boss vows to protect Sterling

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted he will protect Raheem Sterling if necessary.

The 17-year-old from Harlesden has had a major impact since stepping up to first-team level and has been included in the England squad.

And Rodgers said: “I don’t have any worries about Raheem Sterling being called in the England squad – he’s in capable hands.

“He has coped with everything, and the big thing is his courage. I have seen him grow from a young kid to a young man in the last few months. He’s really grown and developed.

“But the point I’ve made since the very beginning is it is about making sure the timing is right for these players, not to let them have too much too young and get over exposure.

“He is 17 and we have to protect him. Maybe we will let him out of the pram when he’s 18!”

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