(Originally written for Threeandin.com)

It has been said that Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling has the world at his feet. Yet, after reports in today’s papers, it seems like he needs a ball at his feet more than anything else.

The Mirror reports that Brendan Rodgers has spoken out about the 18 year old following two court appearances in this calendar year, in which he was cleared in both cases, and further legal action concerning minor driving offences. Rodgers states:

Raheem needs to have a clear mind in everything in his life – he needs to stabilise his life.

Despite having a somewhat quiet disposition on the pitch, it seems that there is weight behind claims that Sterling is struggling with the celebrity and financial aspects of becoming a professional footballer.

There is a benchmark that has been placed on Sterling’s shoulders, gained only from his onlookers. He has made 45 appearances for the Reds with a return of only 3 goals. Those aren’t spectacular statistics.

Sterling made his debut towards the end of Kenny Dalglish’s disappointing reign. It was during a 2-1 home defeat to a then struggling Wigan Athletic. On the day, Liverpool were dire. There was no pace, urgency or technical ability. Sterling came on as a substitute and gave the fans something new, something to be optimistic about. He picked up the ball and instantly ran at defenders, a lot of the time, unsuccessfully, but the fans didn’t mind. Sterling got them on the edge of their seats. He was a shining light in a fading Anfield dressing room.

Everybody picked up on this. Daglish simply had to keep playing him. Sterling seemed to be the only chance for us to move on as a team. He was praised for the injection of energy he gave the side and was soon hauled into the full England squad. All on the back of looking lively in a poor, stagnant Liverpool team.

Sterling’s potential has always overshadowed his present ability. He can make it. He has all the attributes to do so. Rodgers certainly believes it. However, with all the unnecessary problems that is taking over his personal life, he’s making the task a whole lot more difficult for not only himself, but his manager too.