Raheem Sterling 'excited' by Manchester City challenge

Raheem Sterling has spoken of his excitement at the challenge ahead after sealing his £49m switch from Liverpool to Manchester City this afternoon.

The 20-year-old had been heavily linked with a move away from Anfield having turned down a £100,00-a-week deal earlier this year, but the Reds were unwilling to lower their asking price for the youngster and had rejected two previous bids from City.

However, following a protracted and at times acrimonious transfer saga, Sterling was officially confirmed as a City player today, becoming the club's record signing as well as both the most expensive Under-21 player and English player of all time.

"It's a good feeling and this is really happy time for me and my family. I'm just glad it's all over and done with and I can't wait to get on the training field," he told the club's official website.

"The thing that excites me the most is the world class squad we have and knowing we have a team that is capable of winning things year in, year out. The more quality players that are around you, the more quality it brings out in you so I can't wait to get started and play alongside them.

"It has been a long journey from QPR and I'd like to thank a few people who have helped me along the way. I'd like to thank Rafa Benitez for taking me to Liverpool as a 15-year-old - that was a massive step for me and a new challenge. Also to Kenny Dalglish for showing such faith in me and putting me in at such a young age.

"I want to thank Brendan Rodgers for giving me a chance and an opportunity in the first team, giving me my full debut - against City funnily enough - and giving me a real chance to cement a place in the first team and show the world my talents. Finally, I'd also like to thank all the people around me - my mum and sisters, my management team and [agent] Aidy Ward for helping me focus and get where I am today. I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone."

Sterling scored 23 goals in 129 appearances in all competitions during his time with Liverpool.