Liverpool

Bobby Barnes defends Raheem Sterling over legal high "mistake"

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 14 April 2015

PFA chief Bobby Barnes insists that Liverpool's Raheem Sterling should not be treated too harshly, after he was filmed seemingly inhaling laughing gas.

Professional Footballers' Association deputy chief Bobby Barnes has admitted that Raheem Sterling "made a mistake" by seemingly inhaling 'legal high' nitrous oxide, but he is confident that the Liverpool star will quickly learn his lesson.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers was quick to warn the England international about his future conduct following the incident which is said to have taken place last week.

Sterling, who has been linked with a move away from Anfield in recent weeks, was also recently caught smoking a shisha pipe, although Barnes is hopeful that a line can be drawn under the matter.

"Nobody would condone the use of these types of substances, whether legal or otherwise, as footballers are seen as role models," he told PA. "It does send a message to young people that if it's good enough for footballers then it's good enough for them and that is not desirable, but you have to bear in mind that we ask an awful lot of young players growing up in the public eye.

"Many of us look back at things we have done in our teens and early 20s and wish we hadn't done them. He's made a mistake and people are human. I am sure this will be a minor blip on his path to a fantastic career. Players have to be aware that there is camera on every corner - they are very much in the spotlight.

"He's a young man, growing up in public eye and he's made a mistake. Let's not be too hard on the boy. He is under a lot of pressure and people think because he has a lot of talent he's also supposed to have diplomacy and wisdom. In the main, he's doing a very good job. He's at a good club and has a good manager and I'm sure Brendan will put his arm around him and at the same time make him aware of his responsibilities."

Sterling has made 53 appearances this season for club and country, scoring 12 times in all competitions, including the opening goal in Monday evening's 2-0 win over Newcastle United.