Everton were recently linked with a move for Raheem Sterling, but judging by Robin van Persie’s latest remarks, it does not sound like they will be too bothered about missing out.
Sterling was let go by Chelsea and became available on a free. Everton spoke with him, and at one point, it looked like a deal could be on the cards.
He had already been frozen out of the squad, so his exit did not really come as a surprise.
Once the 31-year-old was released, plenty of teams showed interest before he ended up signing with Feyenoord.
Sterling had a rough start to life in Rotterdam. He did not have the best debut for Feyenoord, and Van Persie’s comments since then suggest Everton will not lose any sleep over missing out.
Former Everton target Raheem Sterling could take weeks to reach full fitness
Speaking before Feyenoord’s match against FC Twente, Van Persie addressed Sterling’s situation (via Goal): “It’s always allowed, but I would say it’s better when we are six to eight weeks further along.”
“If you then find that he isn’t delivering and you can back up that opinion, then I say ‘Okay you have a point’. But throwing out such strong opinions on the basis of half an hour, I think that’s inappropriate.”
Van Persie defended Sterling following criticism he received after his brief appearance against Telstar.
Everton’s Jack Grealish also spoke out in Sterling’s defense, calling the criticism “stupid”.
The Englishman made his second appearance for Feyenoord against Twente but was unable to make an impact off the bench.
The Mirror highlighted some assessments from Dutch media outlets after the game. For instance, NOS described his introduction as ‘futile’.
Everton seem happy with their decision not to sign Sterling
It is unclear how close Sterling actually was to joining Everton, or what ultimately stopped the move from happening.
But early signs suggest the Toffees will not be dwelling on it.
Van Persie’s suggestion that the winger could require six to eight weeks to reach full fitness is quite a significant statement.
That is a significant period, and it would not have made sense for Everton to wait that long while also paying a substantial salary.
Instead, Everton opted to bring in Tyrique George on loan, a move that already appears more practical.
Sterling has had a strong career, and there is hope he finds his form again in the Netherlands. But right now, it seems Everton made the right call by passing on him.
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