Statistics have emerged that show Liverpool star Raheem Sterling to be better than some of the world’s top players at creating chances at 20-years-old.
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Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Arsenal aces were all hyped up at the same age, but none of them are able to match the Anfield contract rebel.
Could the England international be the best signing on offer this season?
Raheem Sterling, 75 chances created in 35 games
While the youngster hasn’t quite matched his form from the end of last season, when he was helping the Reds towards a late title challenge. However, had the Liverpool strikers been able to finish off some of his work, the Merseyside club could have had a very different campaign.
Theo Walcott, 22 chances created in 25 games
Injuries may have held the former Southampton man back since, but as a youngster there were some thinking he could be the next Thierry Henry. Despite having played ten fewer games than Sterling, Walcott created far fewer chances as a 20-year-old than Sterling – the man who has replaced him in the England team.
Gareth Bale, 39 chances created from 23 games
Despite his struggles at Real Madrid, the Welshman is still one of the best players in the world. However, Bale is eclipsed by Sterling as a youngster, only managing just over half the chances as the England international in his breakthrough season with Spurs.
David Silva, 40 chances from 34 games
Now one of the best creative midfielders in the Premier League, at 20-years-old he was on loan at Celta Vigo from Valencia and impressing enough to return to the first team at his parent club the year after. However, the Spain international was not at the same level as Sterling is now.
Lionel Messi, 40 chances in 28 games
You’re not doing too badly if a four time Ballon d’Or winner is trailing in your wake. While Messi had far more goals and assists at the age, could that have been simply because he had far better teammates to play with?
Cristiano Ronaldo, 49 chances in 33 games
Another one of the best players in the world, and prolific as a youngster. That Sterling is able to better the 20 year-old Ronaldo is impressive – especially as the season after the Portuguese fired Manchester United to the Premier League title. Could Raheem Sterling do the same?