LONDON: England manager Gareth Southgate brushed aside criticism of his decision to drop Raheem Sterling over an altercation with Joe Gomez, saying he does not resolve problems by thinking how he can please everybody.
Sterling admitted he had let his emotions get the better of him just 24 hours after Liverpool beat City 3-1 to extend their Premier League lead over the defending champions to nine points. Southgate, whose side can seal their place at Euro 2020 with a draw in what is their 1,000th international, said he had taken the decision in the best interests of the team.
“If you are only going to try and make decisions that keep everyone happy that is not going to work either.Southgate, who described his squad as being like a family, said the team will be able to cope without Sterling’s presence, although he will be available again for Monday’s clash in Kosovo.