Arsenal legend Paul Merson is convinced that Raheem Sterling will deliver the good for Arsenal this season.
Mikel Arteta handed Raheem Sterling his first start as an Arsenal player in Wednesday evening’s EFL Cup clash against Bolton Wanderers.
The Chelsea loanee marked the occasion with a goal and an assist, opening his tally for the North London club.
Since arriving at the Emirates Stadium on Transfer Deadline Day, in what Sterling described as a dream move, he has had to a patient and wait for an opportunity to shine.
Prior to his runout against the Trotters, he had only so far been afforded two cameos from the bench by Arteta.
When he finally got his chance to really strut his stuff in red and white for the first time, though, the 29-year-old did not disappoint. Arsenal fans were impressed by Sterling on Wednesday and have faith that he can make a real impact this season.
Paul Merson hails Raheem Sterling in Chelsea dig
Sterling endured a tough time at Stamford Bridge, having previously dazzled for Manchester City. Arteta is well aware of the 82-cap England international’s quality from the time they spent together at the Etihad Stadium.
Sterling has praised Arteta as coach, recalling how the pair worked well together in the North West. Following his switch to Stamford Bridge though he suffered a loss of form.
Despite this, Paul Merson is still surprised the Blues allowed him to depart this summer. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “I thought it was a good signing…. He’s a top player… I’m a big fan of Raheem Sterling, I was shocked Chelsea let him go, I really was.”
He then added: “He was better than some the wingers at Chelsea. He was definitely better than one of them.”
Arsenal on mission to revive Raheem Sterling
Whilst Merson did not name the ‘one’ Chelsea player that he believes Sterling to be better than, it seems probably that he was taking a veiled swipe at Mykhailo Mudryk, who has been a flop in the Premier League since the Blues hijacked Arsenal’s bid for his signature.
Whilst Mudryk is still to consistently impress in English football, Sterling has proven that he can shine in the Premier League before, and has four league titles to his name, amongst numerous other honours.
Arteta backs himself to revive Sterling’s form, and the winger certainly took a positive step in that direction against Bolton.
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