Former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey believes that inconsistent performances from Raheem Sterling are only natural given the youngster's age.

Sterling does not turn 20 until next month, and started the season in blistering form before turning in a number of quieter displays for a struggling Reds side.

However, Heskey believes that Sterling is an outstanding young talent who will only improve with experience.

He told the club's official website: "He has got great pace and his athletic ability is outstanding. He can be the best if he wants to be.

"He has got the ability to be - his dribbling ability and awareness as well, at such a young age, he has got already. He's had a little bit of an up-and-down season so far.

"But he's only 19 so you can't expect him to have the consistency of a 23-, 24- or 25-year-old. He has got a lot of attributes that surpass his age. But he's still young, so he still needs to work on certain things."

Heskey was part of the Liverpool side that won the League Cup, the FA Cup and the UEFA Cup back in 2001.