Raheem Sterling latest: Liverpool forward calls in 'sick' for second day running amid Manchester City interest

The England international has told the club he wants to leave Anfield and does not want to go on pre-season tour

Simon Rice
Thursday 09 July 2015 11:38 BST
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Raheem Sterling in training on Monday
Raheem Sterling in training on Monday (GETTY IMAGES)

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Raheem Sterling has called in sick for Liverpool training for a second day running.

The want-away forward failed to show at Melwood yesterday, citing illness, and remains at home in Southport again today.

The illness has put a new twist on Sterling's push to leave Anfield this summer.

The 20-year-old has already been the subject of two bids from Manchester City, with the most recent a £40m offer. However, Liverpool are holding out for £50m and refusing to budge on their valuation of the England international.

Manchester City, who at this stage are the only club to make an offer for Sterling, are likely to return imminently with another bid.

In the meantime, Sterling has told Liverpool that he does not want to participate in their pre-season tour of South-east Asia and Australia, for which the squad departs on Sunday.

Sterling missed training on Wednesday
Sterling missed training on Wednesday (Getty Images)

Ironically, heading on tour could be beneficial for Sterling if he wants to join Manchester City as Manuel Pellegrini's side will be in Australia at the same time. Liverpool face Brisbane Roar and Adelaide United in the same week City are in the country for a friendly with Melbourne City before they enter an invitational tournament that includes Roma and Real Madrid.

Sterling’s immediate involvement will be determined by a home visit from club doctors. If the illness proves to be genuine, then there might have to be a reassessment on the best way to deal with the situation.

It has been suggested that Sterling’s deteriorating relationship with Rodgers has contributed towards his desire to leave Anfield.

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