The decision to sign Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea before the summer transfer window closed generated a lot of discussion among Arsenal supporters.
His subsequent performances for the Gunners have also prompted plenty of debate, with many questioning whether the winger still has the quality to play at the highest level.
When it was suggested that manager Mikel Arteta should give Sterling a run of starts to show what he can do, fans on X were rather sceptical:
He must earn it whenever called upon
ā Boniface Munala (@BlessBoniface) November 18, 2024
Should never of signed him
ā Ethan (@ClaridgeEthan) November 19, 2024
Iād like to see what happens if he does. He probably will start getting more game time looking at our recent injury woes.
ā Akinola (@theakinmore) November 18, 2024
Breaking news: Back-up players who’s not good enough doesn’t start š±š±
ā š»šššµš±š¦ (@AFCpat_) November 18, 2024
He will get his minutes….only he has to take his chances
ā Sakanelli (@ishaq_ally) November 18, 2024
yeah nah hes done absolutely nothing to warrant a league start.
ā Dan (@ElDanMan86) November 19, 2024
Sterling has struggled since leaving City
During his seven years at the Etihad Stadium, the England international averaged a goal or assist every 1.66 matches. When he joined Chelsea, that ratio went down to 2.61.
His brief spell at Arsenal has yielded a return of just 1 goal and 1 assist in 8 appearances so far but, it must be said, he has only played 333 minutes (the equivalent of less than 4 full games).
Arsenal may need a deputy for Saka
Sterling could actually be in line to start against Nottingham Forest this weekend, but that may depend on the fitness of Bukayo Saka.
The 23-year-old went off injured during the 1-1 draw against Chelsea just before the international break and he wasn’t available for England duty.
If Saka is not pictured in training at the end of the week, it may suggest that Sterling will be given another chance to add to his two starts in the Premier League for Arsenal.
Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
