Raheem Sterling signs long-term Liverpool deal and hopes 'to kick on' - The Guardian

Raheem Sterling has signed a new long-term deal with Liverpool. Link to this video

Raheem Sterling has committed his future to Liverpool by signing a long-term deal with the club.

Sterling, who turned 18 and became eligible to sign a senior contract on 8 December, has broken into the first-team picture to great effect at Anfield this season and has made 25 appearances for Brendan Rodgers's men. The attacker made his England debut against Sweden last month and, with his contract on Merseyside running down, talk was rife that he could move to one of a number of potential suitors. Sterling has opted to remain with the Reds, however.

"It's every 18-year-old's dream. I'm just really grateful to be at such a big club like this," he told Liverpool's official website. "There's a lot more to be done. I haven't begun yet, as the manager has said. Hopefully I can kick on after the new year and try to do my best for the team and the football club."

Sterling moved to Liverpool from Queens Park Rangers in February 2010 and made his debut as a substitute against Wigan Athletic in March 2012.

After two more appearances under Kenny Dalglish last season as a late substitute, he came off the bench midway through the first half against the Belarusian side Gomel in a Europa League qualifier then Rodgers chose to give him a first start in the next round at Hearts. Since then he has had a consistent run in the team, scoring his first goal in a 1-0 win against Reading in October and making his England debut a month later to become Liverpool's youngest ever international.

The club's managing director, Ian Ayre, said: "This is another positive step forward for the football club in securing the long-term future of one of the country's brightest young talents.

"The negotiations were very positive and both parties acted in a very responsible way to reach an outcome that benefits both Raheem and Liverpool FC.

"Since the summer, Luis Suárez, Daniel Agger, Martin Skrtel, Jonjo Shelvey and Suso have all signed new long-term contracts and it's a clear indication of our intent to keep the players we believe are crucial to bringing success on the pitch.

"It also shows the belief the players have in the vision and leadership of Brendan Rodgers and everyone at this football club."