Raheem Sterling says he wants to ‘get back to being obsessed with football’ as the winger looks to return to form at Chelsea.
Sterling scored twice and created another as Chelsea beat Luton 3-0 in the Premier League on Friday evening, continuing a bright start to the season for the 28-year-old after an impressive outing at West Ham last weekend.
The 28-year-old scored just six league goals during an underwhelming debut campaign at Chelsea last season, but is confident he can rediscover his best levels under Mauricio Pochettino.
Sterling spoke on conversations with the new Chelsea head coach and his determination to produce ‘goals and assists’ this season, as he looks to focus on football and return to form for club and country.
“I had a conversation with the gaffer earlier last week, and we have gone through the role and I know exactly what he needs from me and it is simple as that. I need to get on the back foot, drive at players which is when I am most effective,” Sterling told the club’s official website.
“Mindset wise, I came with excuses but that is finished. I always try to analyse what I have been doing, what I have done wrong or what I can change.
“I want to get back to being obsessed with football, football 24/7, and nothing else. Top performances, goals and assists. A lot has happened in my career, I have had a new challenge which has been difficult, and your head can become blurry.
“My love for football is too much and I am too young at 28 to let my career fizzle out. I need to maintain the standards I have set myself the last few years, and keep going.
“Last season I was too deep, playing the ball to the full-backs. We had a simple conversation, it doesn’t matter where you play: just be dynamic and aggressive. Just be aggressive with the ball when wide and I have the desire and hunger to do that.”
