Raheem Sterling features in Nike advert after inspiring debate on racism following alleged abuse

Sterling turned the spotlight on the media's coverage of young black players following alleged racial abuse at Stamford Bridge

Nike have released an advert featuring Raheem Sterling which is similar to their famous campaign with NFL player Colin Kaepernick.

Sterling, who is sponsored by the American sports company, has been praised for drawing attention to the coverage of black footballers following alleged racist abuse aimed at him during Manchester City’s match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The advert, which appeared on social media on Saturday, shows a close up picture of Sterling with the words: “Speaking up doesn’t always makes life easier. But easy never changed anything”.

Sterling scored in Manchester City's 3-1 win against Everton following a week where he has inspired a national debate about racism in football.

Following the alleged abuse, Sterling took to Instagram to highlight the difference in the media portrayal between black and white young footballers, citing an example from MailOnline. “I am not normally the person to talk a lot but when I think I need my point to heard I will speak up,” he said.

“Regarding what was said at the Chelsea game as you can see by my reaction I just had to laugh because I don’t expect no better. For example you have two young players starting out there careers both play for the same team, both have done the right thing. Which is buy a new house for there mothers who have put in a lot of time and love into helping them get where they are, but look how the news papers get there message across for the young black player and then for the young white payer.

“I think this in unacceptable both innocent have not done a thing wrong but just by the way it has been worded. This young black kid is looked at in a bad light. Which helps fuel racism an aggressive behaviour, so for all the news papers that don’t understand why people are racist in this day and age all i have to say is have a second thought about fair publicity an give all players an equal chance.”

Chelsea and the Metropolitan Police are investigating the allegations of racial abuse and the club has temporarily banned four supporters until the result of the outcome is announced.

Several footballers have expressed their support for Sterling and shared their own experiences of racism, while the Premier League issued a statement urging fans to cut out ‘unacceptable’ behaviour.

“As we head into the festive season, with matches coming thick and fast, we ask all supporters to get behind their teams in passionate, positive and respectful ways. Support for a club should never include excessive aggression or discrimination towards the opposition,” read the league's statement.

“If anyone at a Premier League match witnesses unacceptable behaviour please report it to a steward, or submit details on the Kick It Out reporting app or website via this link: Kick It Out reporting form.”