Why is no-one talking about Raheem Sterling’s impressive performance against Preston? | OneFootball

I’m surprised by how Raheem Sterling’s performance in that 3-0 Carabao Cup round of 16 win went unnoticed. Although he didn’t score or assist, Sterling delivered an impressive performance, arguably his finest to date for Arsenal.

We expect a lot from these players, and when they play well, we still judge them by goals and assists. For a moment, can we set aside the goals and assists and focus on the remarkable in-game transitions the Englishman effortlessly made versus Preston, as he moved from the midfield to the wings with such skill and excellence?

PRESTON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 30: Raheem Sterling speaks to teammate Jurrien Timber of Arsenal during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match between Preston North End and Arsenal at Deepdale on October 30, 2024 in Preston, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Indeed, he must keep working on capitalising on his chances, but that performance on Wednesday night demonstrated a notable impact and advancement relative to his previous outings with Arsenal.

Versus Preston, he had;

Most chances created (2)

Most successful dribbles (6)

Most shots on target (3)

Most successful duels (7)

Most touches in the opponent’s penalty area (14)

Sterling continues to display a strong passion in every instance he has the ball. On Wednesday night, he showcased moments of brilliance, and I hope he can build on that to regain his form at Arsenal.

After Jorginho and Kai Havertz, who seem transformed at the Emirates stadium, he could just be another Arsenal steal from Chelsea.

Darren N