Manchester City star Raheem Sterling has revealed that Barcelona icon Ronaldinho was his idol growing up as a child.
Sterling would go into the garden to try and recreate the Brazilian's famous flicks and tricks, while spending hours on YouTube watching him play for European giants throughout Europe.
When asked who his idol was, Sterling told BBC Radio 5 live: "Ronaldinho. That's who I... if you saw my history on YouTube, I think I've watched every single clip of his playing career.
"That was the player I used to go in the garden and try to recreate, which I could have never done. I tried it to the best of my ability but he was so special."
Having competed against Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and other global stars in the game, Sterling was asked if he still feels starstruck when out on the field.
Sterling revealed that as a teenager he was in awe of Steven Gerrard at Liverpool but as he has aged his winning mentality has taken over.
He added: "To be honest, probably when I was 17, 18, 19 I was probably in a bit of awe. Steven Gerrard was the first player where I was in awe standing in front of him.
"Now, it's strictly business. I need to beat your team, it's as simple as that. I think you're a great player and everything but I don't think like that anymore."
