Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has talked up Raheem Sterling ahead of the Gunners' clash with Liverpool on Sunday.
The England forward was influential when Brendan Rodgers’ men thumped Arsenal 5-1 in February.
And he was on form again in midweek, scoring twice in Liverpool’s Capital One Cup victory over Bournemouth.
“I think he is one of the great players in England”
Arsene Wenger on Sterling
Wenger said: “I rate him highly, Sterling.
“Everybody speaks about [Luis] Suarez last year, but let's not forget [Daniel] Sturridge and Sterling are very, very influential.
“I think he is one of the great players in England.”
Meanwhile, Sterling is the latest recipient of the prestigious European Golden Boy award.
The accolade is presented to the best player under the age of 21 in a top-flight European league and is voted for by journalists.
Three Lions captain Wayne Rooney was crowned Golden Boy in 2004 and Sterling is only the second Englishman to scoop the award.
Sterling told Liverpool’s official website: “It’s a great achievement to win such an award.
“It’s a really happy feeling for me and my family, of course.
“Something I’ve always wanted to do is to work hard playing football and try to be recognised. I’m really grateful that people have shown me this recognition.
“It’s down to hard work. I’m really happy that people are recognising that I’m trying to work hard and do my best for this football club. I’m really grateful for this award.”
FA Cup holders Arsenal are seventh in the Premier League, five points and four places clear of Liverpool.
