“The X-factor”- Paul Merson rips into international boss for omitting resurgent Chelsea attacker

Paul Merson surprised that Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling didn’t make Gareth Southgate’s English squad

Paul Merson has fired shots at England boss Gareth Southgate for not calling up Chelsea star Raheem Sterling, who is currently in excellent form for the upcoming international break. This comes in the wake of the Blues’ ace’s sensational performance in the 4-1 Premier League win over Burnley.

The flying winger was involved in three Chelsea goals in their 4-1 win against Burnley yesterday, as the Blues secured their second Premier League win in a row. With the October international break up next, the Blues have ended their list of fixtures on a high note. They will return to action next against Arsenal on October 21st.

Meanwhile, Southgate has named his squad ahead of the October international break. England face Australia in a friendly game before facing off against Ukraine in the Euro 2024 qualifiers.

Sterling’s omission has not gone down well with the Arsenal legend who has now come out vocally to address the matter. Merson felt the former Manchester City forward deserved a chance to be called up for England games, as he told Sky Sports (h/t Metro):

‘‘It beats me (why he isn’t in the England squad). He has his ups and downs, but when he has his good games, he’s the X-factor. When you want to win the World Cup and European Championships, you have to have someone out of the ordinary.”

As evidenced by the 2018 World Cup and the 2020 Euros, Raheem Sterling has consistently provided the X factor for Southgate in pivotal games. Sterling is essentially a player who checks all the boxes in attack and also provides the experience expected of a serial winner.

When on song, he alters the course of the game and pull something out of the hat. While he has enjoyed a difficult few months at Chelsea, Sterling is now coming into his own and looks a far more comfortable and motivated player in Blue.

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As Chelsea supporters, we will not be complaining too much about Sterling’s omission. Not being selected will certainly fuel his fire to improve more and also give him a breather to get his fitness back on track. After this international break, we will face difficult teams, and there will be high expectations from the former Manchester City forward following his recent display.