Dutch media have heavily criticised Raheem Sterling following his latest performance for Feyenoord, claiming the former England winger cannot make an impact in the Eredivisie. The 31-year-old joined the Dutch giants in February as a free agent after terminating his contract with Chelsea.
Sterling started the home match against fierce rivals Ajax on Sunday but was substituted at the 55-minute mark with his team trailing 1-0. Feyenoord later equalised to secure a draw, but Sterling's display drew sharp criticism from the Dutch press.
DPG Media criticised his apparent lack of pace, stating: 'In modern football, no speed means no danger. The arrival of Sterling, announced with great fanfare, gave the Legioen hope but the Englishman cannot make the difference for Feyenoord.' AD highlighted a missed chance, writing: 'The tension was palpable ... in the clumsy way Raheem Sterling kicked a ball over the goal.'
Voetbal International gave Sterling a match rating of 5/10, while De Telegraaf branded his performance a 'total failure', stating he contributed 'nothing' going forward or in defence, enabling Ajax to play out easily. The newspaper mockingly observed that 'it seemed like he was enjoying the sun more than being focused on the match', and suggested he would be 'better off playing for a veterans' team.'
Sterling has struggled for match sharpness after a nine-month absence from competitive football. His first game for Feyenoord was a poor cameo against Telstar, and he has yet to make a significant impact, though he did notch an assist in a recent fixture against Excelsior. Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie has publicly defended the Premier League icon from scrutiny.
