Raheem Sterling came in for heavy criticism from the Dutch press after an underwhelming performance in his first start for Feyenoord during Sunday's 3-3 draw with NAC Breda. The 31-year-old winger, who joined the Eredivisie side in January, has yet to register a goal or assist for his new club.
Manager Robin van Persie substituted Sterling after 63 minutes, a decision the former England international admitted he disagreed with but accepted. 'I felt good enough to continue, but it is the coach's choice,' Sterling said. 'Every player wants to stay on. It is understandable that it is not yet possible. It is another new step in the right direction.'
Dutch media were less forgiving. Bart Vlietstra of De Volkskrant compared Sterling's arrival to Ivan Perisic's, but noted that Sterling is 'much less fit and sharp than the Croatian, who is six years older.' Vlietstra added that Sterling 'frequently lost possession and was beaten for speed on through balls.'
De Telegraaf's Mike Verweij wrote that Sterling 'underscored that he still needed some time to be an asset' after 'a wasted sprint and a poor touch in a promising position.' He also noted that Sterling left the field with a yellow card for a frustration-related foul.
AD delivered the harshest verdict, with Mikos Gouka highlighting Sterling's lack of pace and shooting power. He also reported that NAC supporters taunted Sterling, chanting 'all balls to Sterling' after a weak effort on goal.
Sterling's lack of match sharpness has been a recurring theme since his arrival, with the winger making only his third appearance for Feyenoord on Sunday. The 82-cap England international will hope to improve as he gains more minutes under Van Persie.
