Mikel Arteta talked up the qualities and the hunger of Raheem Sterling as calls increase for the Arsenal loanee to come into the starting XI.
Despite not initially being on the club’s radar Sterling was signed late on deadline day, arriving for the season from Chelsea as he looks to rediscover his best form. Arteta has worked with the winger previously at Manchester City, where he enjoyed the best period of his career.
If Sterling is to come into the starting XI it will likely be Gabriel Martinelli dropping out with Bukayo Saka a certain starter on the opposite flank. Martinelli’s form has also dipped in recent months and the Arsenal boss now has more depth and credible alternatives.
Arteta spoke to Sterling on the phone when he first considered bringing him to the Emirates and was quickly convinced that the Englishman, who has lost his international spot, can make valuable contributions.
