In-form Sterling studies the best

RAHEEM Sterling has been studying the best as he bids to take his game to the highest level.

The England forward has been watching as much of the game's greatest players as he can in the hope of finding ways to improve.

Sterling has been one of Manchester City's most influential players this season, with the arrival of Pep Guardiola as manager appearing to have reinvigorated his game.

The 22-year-old underlined his return to form with an excellent winner as Manchester City came from behind to beat Arsenal on Sunday.

Sterling said: "I watch players to get better.

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"I'm only 22 and I'm going to watch world-class players to see if I can improve my game week-in, week-out.

"There are many players in my position I watch to keep adding to my game. I know I can still get better."

Sterling's first season at City following an acrimonious move from Liverpool fizzled out after suffering a groin injury in March and his performances at Euro 2016 were widely criticised.

But Guardiola contacted Sterling during the tournament in the summer to offer assurances that he would figure in his plans at City. He appears to be taking that chance.

Sterling said: "He has told me to be direct, to be the player he knows I want to be - to be direct, to be involved in creating chances and scoring goals, being clinical, and that's what I need to do.

"It's about me enjoying my football, learning each day at training. I just need to show it on the pitch.

"I can't keep talking about it, but have to do it. I need to express myself and that's what I'm trying to do."

After a recent indifferent spell, City now hope back-to-back victories over Watford and Arsenal have got them back on track.

Sterling said: "I'm massively excited about this season and what we can achieve.

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"Of course we want the title and to do well in the Champions League.

"It's good times ahead, exciting times, and we just need to keep going."