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Premier League: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola feels Raheem Sterling can shine as striker

England international Sterling scored a superb hat-trick as the champions kicked off their Premier League defence with a convincing 5-0 victory at West Ham United.

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|Aug 11, 2019, 22:32:44 IST
Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling’s improving physicality and finesse can help him excel as a central striker when he is deployed in the role, manager Pep Guardiola has said.England international Sterling scored a superb hat-trick as the champions kicked off their Premier League defence with a convincing 5-0 victory at West Ham United.[caption id="attachment_7146321" align="alignleft" width="380"]Manchester City's English midfielder Raheem Sterling applauds as he carries the match ball after scoring a hatttick to help his team win 5-0 during the English Premier League football match between West Ham United and Manchester City at The London Stadium, in east London on August 10, 2019. (Photo by Ian KINGTON / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /

Manchester City's English midfielder Raheem Sterling. AFP[/caption]Guardiola said that Sterling, who began the contest on the left of their attacking trident after record goalscorer Sergio Aguero dropped to the bench, had the versatility to perform in any position across the forward line.“Since we started this season in China and the Community Shield he’s scored one goal minimum every game,” Spaniard Guardiola told City’s website.“On the first day he played as a striker and for me striker will be an incredible position for him. He can play in three positions up front.“They’re incredibly talented players but they need the group.... When the team takes a step forward he plays better. But I know the special quality of the player, the consistent physicality and the finishing."Sterling, who was voted Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association last season, scored 25 goals in all competitions across the campaign.City host Tottenham Hotspur in their next league game on 17 August.

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First Published:Aug 11, 2019, 22:32:44 IST
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