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MANCHESTER. — Raheem Sterling has paid tribute to Pep Guardiola for his rejuvenation this season. Sterling also insists he didn’t head into the season determined to make his critics eat their words. The Manchester City winger was at a low ebb in the summer following a disappointing first season at the Etihad Stadium and criticism for his performances as England flopped at the Euros. Instead the Manchester City winger made a promise to himself, vowing there would be improvements. And he has certainly delivered. Sterling (21) struggled to justify his £49m price tag as he failed to hit the heights at the Etihad following his switch from Liverpool last summer. A nightmare Euro 2016 campaign with England followed, Sterling taking most of the flak, despite his age and inexperience, for the failings of Roy Hodgson’s team.

He even tweeted he was #thehatedone as fans focused on his performances as England went from bad to worse before getting knocked out against minnows Iceland. But Sterling (21) has bounced back under Guardiola’s management and is showing the form that prompted City to buy him from Liverpool 13 months ago in a deal that could amount to £49m. — The Daily Express.