Rodgers: Sterling can be fans’ favourite

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has backed teen star Raheem Sterling to become a fans’ favourite at Anfield after his dazzling show against champions Manchester City. Sterling marked the first Premier League start of his career with a virtuoso performance in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with City and the 17-year-old was rewarded with a glowing tribute from Rodgers. After spending the last year watching Stewart Downing deliver a series of lacklustre displays on the wings for Liverpool, the arrival of the pacey Sterling was also greeted with delight on the Kop at Anfield. Jamaica-born Sterling, who joined Liverpool from QPR two years ago, gave City defender Kolo Toure a torrid time and Rodgers claimed he never doubted the England youth international had what it takes to shine on the big stage.