Raheem Sterling Eager for England Return Amid Chelsea's Rebuild

Chelsea Star Reflects on National Team Absence and Club's Future Under Maresca

Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling has expressed his strong desire to return to the England national team, describing the experience of playing for his country as "one of the best feelings you can ever have." The 29-year-old, who last featured for England during the 2022 World Cup, has been absent from the squad since leaving Qatar early to attend to a family emergency.

Sterling's absence from the national team has been prolonged by the decisions of former England manager Gareth Southgate, who omitted the forward from multiple squad selections, including the roster for Euro 2024. Southgate, who recently stepped down following England's defeat in the Euro 2024 final against Spain, leaves behind an uncertain future for the Three Lions, with Under-21 boss Lee Carsley expected to take interim charge for the upcoming Nations League matches in September.

When asked about his feelings on being away from the England camp, Sterling's passion for representing his country was evident. "Of course, I love playing for England. It is one of the best feelings you can ever have," he said. "To see the boys out there brought me joy. To be honest, they were the only games I watched - the England ones. I love playing for England. I am looking forward to getting back in the England set-up, that is for sure."

Sterling's hopes of an England recall could be bolstered by a strong season with Chelsea, a club that has struggled to find its footing since his arrival from Manchester City for £50 million. The Blues are undergoing a period of transition, with Enzo Maresca, a former assistant to Pep Guardiola at City, now at the helm as Chelsea's manager.

Sterling is optimistic about the direction Chelsea is heading under Maresca, believing the new manager's approach could unlock the team's potential. "[He can get the] best out of me, the best out of the team," Sterling remarked. "He has come in and stamped his authority, the way he wants to play. Yes, some of the results haven't been pleasing, but with the ball, the right information is getting passed on. You can see the patterns coming through."

Reflecting on Chelsea's preseason, Sterling noted the progress being made, despite the challenges. "It is early days, so you can see where we're looking to go. It is a learning process for the whole group and one we are grasping really quickly. The Premier League is coming along very soon, so I do think there are good times ahead."

During Chelsea's preseason tour of the United States, Sterling featured in all five friendlies, contributing one goal and one assist. As the Premier League season approaches, the winger is focused on delivering performances that could not only help Chelsea improve on their recent underachievement but also reignite his international career.

For now, Raheem Sterling remains hopeful that his form at the club level will earn him a place back in the England squad, where he can once again experience the "best feeling" of representing his country on the international stage.