(CNN) It was the moment that prompted Manchester City and England star Raheem Sterling to become an unofficial spokesman for his generation of players on the issue of racism.

Racially abused by Chelsea fans during Manchester City's defeat at Stamford Bridge in December, Sterling says one of his abiding memories of that incident is the "pure frustration and anger on people's faces."

"The abuse I got there -- looking at the fans -- made me realize this is more than just about football," Sterling told the Bleacher Report.

"The best way that I can deal with it is not to get angry and let my football do the talking."

Nonetheless soon after the incident, Sterling posted on Instagram, referencing two articles from the MailOnline -- one covering a young white player, the other a young black player -- arguing they highlighted the role the media plays in perpetuating racial prejudices in society.

Read More