Raheem Sterling has made an honest admission regarding Chelsea’s upcoming clash against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League.
The 27-year-old arrived from Premier League champions Manchester City at the start of the transfer window, becoming the first signing of the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital era at Stamford Bridge.
He made his competitive debut for Thomas Tuchel’s side against Everton, having the ball in the back of the net, but this was disallowed as he strayed offside.
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The England international will be hoping to net his first goal for the Blues in his home debut.
Chelsea face Tottenham in a London derby on Sunday as they look to continue their winning start to the season.
Spurs are coming into the match off the back of a win on the opening day of the season, beating Southampton 4-1 as they came from behind to do so.
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Chelsea were less impressive, scoring just a single goal from the penalty spot as Jorginho converted for the Blues.
Sterling and Chelsea will be hoping to make it two wins out of two, with the winger discussing what he is expecting from Sunday’s clash.
Speaking to the press on Thursday, Sterling admitted that he was optimistic of getting a result.
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He said: "It's a tough first couple of fixtures. It's one where we can test ourselves.
"Pre-season was an up and down one in terms of results and what the manager wanted, but pre-season isn't real and we try to build on that.
“The energy and unity, when you can really feel that going into games, I'm really optimistic.
"I'm excited by the opportunity to showcase my talent. Growing up a bit, off the field, inside the changing room, it's a developing side of me which I'd like to see a lot more, to drive the team on."
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Former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte will be in the opposing dug-out, so far unable to beat Tuchel since the pair have faced off in London derbies.
The Blues will be hoping to mark the potential home debuts of Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly and Marc Cucurella with victory over their London rivals.
Following the clash, Chelsea will face Leeds United the following Sunday at Elland Road before hosting Leicester City and Southampton before the transfer window slams shut.
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It remains to be seen as to whether Tuchel will add to his incomings before the end of the month.
Topics: Chelsea, Raheem Sterling, Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, Football
Nick Emms