Raheem Sterling's struggles at Feyenoord continued as he was substituted early in the second half during the De Klassieker draw with Ajax. The former England forward started but failed to make an impact, with head coach Robin van Persie admitting he expects more from the 31-year-old.
Sterling was replaced after 55 minutes with Feyenoord trailing 1-0, having failed to create any clear chances. A late penalty from Jakub Moder secured a point for the home side, but the performance highlighted the gap between Sterling's current form and the demands of the Eredivisie.
Van Persie, under pressure to secure second place and Champions League qualification, acknowledged the need for improvement. 'I respect where he is coming from, but we have to deliver as a club,' he said. 'I want to see more impact off the ball, more impact on the ball.'
Sterling joined Feyenoord in February after a difficult spell at Chelsea, but has yet to rediscover his best form. With PSV Eindhoven running away with the title, Feyenoord's hopes of direct Champions League qualification rest on finishing second, a target that looks increasingly precarious.
