Raheem Sterling (left), showing off his ball skills to some youths in Maverley, while on a visit here in 2012. - file

Liverpool's Jamaican-born winger Raheem Sterling (right), shielding the ball from Manchester City's Yaya Toure, during an English Premier League football match at Anfield Stadium, Liverpool, on April 12. Sterling scored the opening goal as Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-2. - file

The community of Maverley in St Andrew is in a joyful mood over news that Raheem Sterling has been included in England's 23-man squad named for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Sterling, who had a wonderful season for Liverpool FC in the just concluded English Premier League (EPL), was selected, as expected, in the squad announced by England's senior team football coach, Roy Hodgson, yesterday.

Michael Lowe, vice-president of Maverley/Hughenden FC, said he was always confident that Sterling would be included after his performances for Liverpool last season.

"Well, it was certain that he (Sterling) would make the squad based on his performances for Liverpool," Lowe told STAR Sports yesterday. "His football has improved since the coach (Brendan Rodgers) gave him a tough talk last year," he added.

"I know that the Maverley community is proud that Raheem, who is born there, has been included in the England squad for the greatest show on Earth, set to start next month, in Brazil," he reasoned.

Gary Morrison, a close friend of Sterling, was also overjoyed on hearing the news yesterday. "I feel great to know that Raheem, who I have known for a long time, is in the squad, at the age of 19. That is really a fantastic achievement for my friend," he said.

rise in football

"Raheem's family and friends are really proud. He also motivates the Maverley Major League team," Morrison, who is a member of the Maverley/Hughenden senior team, pointed out.

Gregory McCarthy, who is also a friend of Raheem, spoke of his meteoric rise in football. "Well, based on the fact that Raheem is from Maverley makes me very proud. It is a great achievement, and the community is also proud to know that a youth from the inner-city will be at the greatest event in football. He has moved very fast in a very short time."

Rasheed Davis, another friend added: "Raheem is a youth from here (Maverley) and that has made the community proud. We share in his achievement and wish him all the best in the World Cup. We will be watching the games and cheering for him. He loves the community and visits whenever possible. He is a good youth."

A product of the famed Queens Park Rangers Academy in England, Sterling caught the attention of Liverpool and other clubs, but the 'Reds' snapped him up in a £600,000 swoop in 2010.

senior debut

Sterling quickly worked his way up the Merseyside ranks, with his darting runs and good ball control. He scored nine goals in 33 games, added to five assists in his best season in 2013-14.

He made his senior debut for Liverpool on March 24, 2012, as a substitute in a league game against Wigan.

He has represented England at the Under-16, Under-17 and Under-21 levels, and made his senior debut in 2012.

Sterling grew up in Maverley and was raised by his grandmother. At age five, he emigrated to London, England, with his mother. He attended Copland High in Wembley, North West London.