Thursday, 28 May 2015

The 20-year-old's agent announced the winger would not be staying at Anfield for any sum of money, but the Reds boss insists he will be see out his deal

Rodgers: Talks or no talks, Sterling is staying at Liverpool
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says he expects Raheem Sterling to see out the final two years of his current deal, despite the bitter ongoing contract row between player and club.

Sterling's controversial agent, Aidy Ward, insisted on Thursday that the 20-year-old would not be staying at Anfield even if he were offered €1.3 million per week, and also branded ex-Red Jamie Carragher a "k***" over his criticism of the situation.

That came on the back of a string of stories in the media suggesting Sterling is set on finding a new club this summer, and the Reds duly scrapped planned talks over a new agreement.

But Rodgers says the youngster will be staying put regardless: "It's difficult to comment on what others speak about. Any meetings that take place here will be dealt with internally.

"Raheem, whether there are talks or no talks, has two years left and I expect him to see that through.

"I'm sure talks will take place over the summer. 

"I don't see Raheem as being unhappy. If Raheem is fit, which he is, he will be available to play on Sunday. It doesn't change my approach to him. He's a good kid."

Widespread reports on Monday night stated that Sterling had told Rodgers ahead of the Premier League clash at Chelsea earlier this month that he would be leaving the club this summer.

But the Reds boss refused to shed any light on the rumours, insisting everything the club does will be conducted in private.

"What Raheem said and didn't say to me [before the Chelsea game] will stay between him and I.

"How we like to work is to keep everything behind closed doors. We can only control what we do."

Liverpool proved their ability to keep hold of an unsettled player, if only for one further season, by refusing to sell Luis Suarez to Arsenal in the summer of 2013.

And Rodgers believes the club's owners, Fenway Sports Group, will be able to keep the Sterling situation under control.

"The ownership have shown their strength in their time here," he continued. "They have done an incredible job to stabilise the club.

"Liverpool supporters always back their own players. If he plays any part in the game, Raheem will get the support of our fans."

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