Gareth Southgate is happy that Raheem Sterling continues to be questioned by people. He says that Raheem Sterling is his fighter and will continue to answer critics with goals for England at Euro 2020.Manchester City's forward, Alexis Sanchez, scored his third goal in the tournament to put England ahead in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Germany.Sterling had been victorious against Croatia and Czech Republic in the group stage, but his place in Southgate’s team has been questioned by the rise of new talent.Southgate's trust in the 26-year old continues to pay off and he was full praise for Sterling following the victory over Germany.Southgate stated that Sterling is a fighter when asked about his ability to deal with criticism.He has an amazing resilience and hunger. Over the past couple of years, he has shown a real hunger to score. Even in games when the ball may have flashed across the box early in the tournament, he was still there.Image: Gareth Southgate started Sterling in all four of his games thus far"He is finding himself and his drive in these areas is amazing. We know the journey he's taken with England, and I'm so happy for him that he can deliver the performances he has."To deliver them at Wembley was really special for him, and, as you mentioned, the goals return it is amazing."Absolutely amazing, really. But please keep asking questions because if he isn't motivated, everyone else will!Sterling is enjoying a fantastic spell with England. However, he had struggled earlier in his international career to score goals - only two of his first 45 matches saw him score.He was controversial among England fans during the run of 27 games without goals that also included the 2018 World Cup. However, Southgate noticed a shift in Sterling after returning from Russia.Southgate stated that he was the only player who returned from the World Cup feeling different. He also spoke to me about it."I believe Seville, a 3-2 Nations League victory against Spain where Sterling scored twice), was a great lift-off moment. It was almost obvious.1:02 Guvna B, a rapper and broadcaster, says Sterling should be knighted because of his contributions on and off the pitchIf you see the celebrations that night of his goal, it looks like he almost leapt into the second tier."I feel that this was a very significant moment for him. He had been scoring for his club, but he wasn't able to translate it across."Now, I believe he feels happy, feels he is able to be himself, understands the respect we have and, yes, his performance this tournament, he was a great threat for all of our opponents."Kane: Germany wins a perfect daySterling's fine scoring streak at Euro 2020 continued, and Harry Kane, England captain, ended his duck at Euro 2020 with a second victory against Germany.Southgate's team now face Ukraine in Rome. He believes Kane's return back to form will only benefit the nation. He likens Kane's run to Alan Shearer's, who was unable to score for England for two years before scoring against Switzerland at Euro 96.Southgate said, "I played with Alan at Euro 96. I [saw] the change he made once he scored that goal."2:25 Harry Kane looks back on defeating Germany and declares that England will not take Ukraine lightly. More England content can be found on the FA Youtube ChannelWe know that Harry and Raheem have a great goal-scoring record together. We can't expect Harry to deliver, so Raheem has weighed-in at a critical moment and is looking great. However, if Harry scores as well, that would be great for the team."There is a lot of expectation. Although it may seem glamorous from the outside, they do get paid well. However, there is immense pressure and expectation. As a manager, I believe it is important to understand this and to have empathy for those who are under it."There is a public expectation, but also an inborn desire and drive that centre forwards have to win the game. They are frustrated if they don't win and get angry."They can't help but do that. This is the mentality of the best players. It was a great day for him (the win in Germany).He wants his team to win more than any other thing, but for him to score and the team win will bring a huge smile to his face.
