Paul Scholes believes that Raheem Sterling's confidence is "shot to pieces" following his disappointing performance for England against the Republic of Ireland.
The 20-year-old struggled immensely in his time on the pitch at the Aviva Stadium as he was jeered by the crowd because of his ongoing dispute with Liverpool over his future with the Merseysiders.
Sterling's day came to an end after just 67 minutes as Andros Townsend replaced him, leaving Scholes to feel that the winger has lost belief in his ability.
He told ITV Sport: "You have to feel for Sterling a bit, it looks like his confidence has gone a little bit. This is a lad six months ago, he could beat any defender in the world.
"He has great skill, great pace and he just looks like his confidence is shot to pieces."
Sterling has been linked with moves to Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea this summer after his agent claimed that he would not sign a new deal at Liverpool.
Simon Sinclair
