Guardiola backs Sterling to hit 30 Premier League goals this season | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has backed star attacker Raheem Sterling to break the 30 goal mark in the Premier League this season.

The England international has transformed into one of the top flight’s most consistent goal scorers in recent seasons, striking 35 times over the last two campaigns.

24-year-old Sterling has begun this season in superb form, following up a goal in the Community Shield against Liverpool, with a hat trick in the reigning champions Premier League opener against West Ham last weekend.

Speaking ahead of his sides clash with Spurs at the Etihad this evening Guardiola has backed Sterling to continue to improve and hit the hallowed 30 goal mark.

“When he’s in front of the goal, he puts it in the net,” Guardiola told his pre-match press conference.

“So, he can do it, yeah. He scored 25 and 25 to 30 is only five goals. He can do it. But I don’t know. I never spoke with Sergio (Aguero) or Gabriel (Jesus) or Raheem, with any of the people up front, about what are their dreams and targets. You can ask him.

“Hopefully he can score goals. I think goals are a consequence of the way we play – their mood, how the team’s playing, no injuries.

“I wouldn’t judge him if he scored 30 goals or 35 or 20. When he scores goals, I’m happy. But if he does what he has to do for him and the team, it’s enough.”

Manchester City and Spurs combined XI

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