The Manchester City star was recently photographed with an assault rifle tattoo clearly visible on his leg, leading to criticism from anti-gun campaigners, with some even going as far as to demand he be kicked from the Three Lions’ 2018 World Cup squad.
However, Sterling cleared up the sentiment behind the design, having posted on social media website Instagram: ”When I was 2 my father died from being gunned down to death. I made a promise to myself I would never touch a gun in my life time, I shoot with my right foot so it has a deeper meaning.”
The FA have also responded to the public criticisms, saying: ”We all support Raheem Sterling and acknowledge the honest and heartfelt account he gave via Instagram.”