It’s been a fierce 22 weeks of action in the 2019-2020 Premier League League campaign and Manchester City find themselves 14 points behind Liverpool.
Raheem Sterling, who banged 17 goals in the 34 appearances last season has found it tough trying to rediscover his scoring form. Although the winger has scored 11 goals in 20 appearances for the Citizens this campaign, the England international has not made the development many expected from him.
Pep Guardiola’s side have recorded two high scoring games in the top-flight this season, against Watford (8-0) and Aston Villa (6-1) but then guess what – Raheem Sterling has not featured in any.
It could be that the statistics are priggish, Sterling has not done much this season and if what City have played in the last two games is anything to go by, he could be heading to a situation where he may likely lose his spot in the starting line-up.
Riyad Mahrez has hit top gear, and there is no stopping him now, with some even claiming he should be the first on the team sheet because of his qualities and ability to cut through defenses at tough times, something Raheem Sterling has failed to do.
The impressive form of Gabriel Jesus and the injury return of Sergio Aguero has given the gaffer a great headache benching any of his forward. David Silva’s return should move Bernardo Silva further forward to the front three and with Leroy Sane also fast approaching fitness, Sterling will definitely need to step up.
His preferred right-wing position is currently a ‘hot cake’ and he will struggled to fend of the increasing competition from Mahrez and Bernardo Silva. His last goal came in the 3-2 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he scored both goals but were still not enough to guarantee points for the Manchester side.
With the Euro 2020 fast approaching, the 25 year-old will have to find his scoring boots once again and be prepared to lead the line together with Harry Kane for the Three Lions. Gareth Southgate will hope Guardiola can psyche him once again to boost his morale.
The forward is however expected to return to the line-up when Manchester City host Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday in the Premier League, as City look to mount a comeback to regain top spot.
