Football
Kevin Palmer 9y

Roy Hodgson: I did nothing wrong over Raheem Sterling tiredness row

England manager Roy Hodgson has said he "did nothing wrong" in saying that Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling was too tired to start the Euro 2016 qualifier in Estonia.

Hodgson told journalists Sterling had explained that he was suffering from fatigue in the build-up to the game in Tallinn, sparking criticism in the media and from high-profile former England internationals including Michael Owen.

Hodgson's judgement was questioned after he opted to release details of the conversation, with Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers suggesting the winger had been "hung out to dry"

But the England boss, who confirmed that Rodgers was yet to respond to his most recent call on Wednesday, told a news conference: "I speak to Raheem all the time and, as far as I'm concerned that chapter -- which was an unfortunate one -- is over.

"My personal view is that he was unfairly treated. I am disappointed for him, he knows that. Our relationship is a very, very good one and, if you say there are things to learn, we will probably both learn from them.

"I don't understand how it is a clear mistake to tell the truth when you are asked questions about why you haven't chosen a player. He did nothing wrong and, I have to be honest, I don't think I did anything wrong either.

"Other people may have different opinions, but it is a chapter that is a month old. As far as I'm concerned, I am really interested in the present and the future.

"All I will say is I have great respect for Raheem Sterling and I agree with Steven Gerrard: he is a player who is going to do wonderful things in the future.

"I'm happy that our relationship has been very good in the past and it will be very good in the future."

Sterling has been named in the England squad for the forthcoming Euro 2016 qualifier against Slovenia and the friendly against Scotland, with his role in the two games likely to be closely monitored by all observers.

He had responded to England fans who criticised him over the tiredness by saying he "was only human."

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