England's Raheem Sterling gets 'Pep talk' phone call

Raheem Sterling has received a confidence-boosting phone call from his new Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.

The Spaniard rang England international Sterling to tell him that he is “central to his plans” for the Blues, once he takes over next month.

A source close to the winger said: “Pep told him that as long as he works hard then he will fight for him.

"He told Raheem to keep his head up, not to worry. He knows he’s a very good player and a major part of his plans for Manchester City.”

Sterling ended the season on the bench at City, and has subsequently been struggling for form and confidence at the Euros.