Raheem Sterling 'didn't expect to be dropped' with forward snubbed for Chelsea and Man City clash

Sterling has been omitted by new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who will be hoping to guide his side to victory at the first time of asking.

Cole Palmer, Nicholas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku have all been picked ahead of the former City and Liverpool star.

And the Daily Mail say Sterling's snub was 'expected' from his point of view, with the 29-year-old previously believing he'd be picked in the squad.

A pre-match interview with the England star was featured on the Blues' website earlier this week.

And manager Maresca dubbed Sterling an 'important player' during pre-season, hinting he was part of his plans.

The report says Sterling is now seeking clarity on his position at Chelsea, with a move away from west London potentially on the cards.

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His camp have released a statement saying the Premier League veteran remains 'committed' to the club.

They said: "Raheem Sterling is contracted to Chelsea Football Club for the next three years.

"He returned to England two weeks early to conduct individual training, and has had a positive pre-season under the new coach, who he has developed a good working relationship with.

"He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level for Chelsea FC and the fans, who he holds in high regard, and given his inclusion in official club pre-match material this week, our expectation was that Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity.

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"As a camp, we have always had positive dialogue with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC in relation to Raheem’s future at the club, so we look forward to gaining clarity on the situation.

"Until then, we will continue to support Raheem’s desire to start the new season positively."

Sterling featured in six matches for Chelsea during pre-season.

But with the Blues so stacked in attacking positions, he could quit before the transfer window shuts later this month.

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Chelsea have gone strong for today's match as they look to put City to the sword.

Robert Sanchez starts in goal, with Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella making up their back four.

Moises Caicedo, Roman Lavia and Enzo Fernandez start in midfield.

And Palmer, Jackson and Nkunku make up their front three.

As for City, Ederson starts behind Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.

Rico Lewis and Mateo Kovacic partner up in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva starting further ahead.

Savinho, Jeremy Doku and Erling Haaland complete their attacking trident.