Robin van Persie has come out strongly in defense of Raheem Sterling, criticizing the "cynicism" that has accompanied the former England international during his adventure in the Eredivisie.
The Feyenoord coach reacted after the victory over PEC Zwolle, insisting that the veteran winger deserves much more respect for everything he has achieved in his career.
Sterling was given a rare chance to start from Van Persie in the final week of the season, playing over 70 minutes as Feyenoord secured second place. While the former Arsenal and Manchester United striker admitted his form had its ups and downs, he quickly turned the spotlight on the way Sterling has been treated by the media and fans in the Netherlands.
"He was unlucky at times," Van Persie said after the game. "But there were also times when he was in good positions. In the second half, for example, he made a good move into the middle. Personally, I'm worried about the cynicism around him. I think respect would be more appropriate. I don't like the cynicism. I can't stand the atmosphere that's been created around him."
According to Van Persie, Sterling's career, which includes multiple Premier League titles and dozens of England caps, should be enough to warrant him being treated with more care and respect. The Feyenoord coach believes the football culture in the Netherlands has been too quick to underestimate a player who has competed at the highest level for more than a decade.
Van Persie stressed that Sterling's previous achievements should not be forgotten just because he is having difficulty adapting to Dutch football.
"Everyone should know their place in this issue. I think sometimes in the Netherlands we go a little overboard with this," he added.
Sterling arrived in Rotterdam with a huge profile, and Van Persie tried to remind the public of what the winger has achieved in England with Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea. For the Feyenoord coach, the numbers speak for themselves, regardless of current form.
"He's scored 200 goals for England and played 82 internationals," Van Persie said. "That's true whether you think he's playing well or not. But the way we're treating this as a footballing country is really, really bad."
Sterling did not speak to the media after the win over Zwolle, while Van Persie revealed he intends to offer him personal support at a team dinner after the season. The manager wants the winger to feel appreciated, despite the external noise that has accompanied him during his season in Rotterdam.
"I'll discuss this with him tonight," Van Persie said. "We have dinner with the group and I'll find a moment to talk to him." /GazetaExpress/
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