Raheem Sterling has been given an award for his stance against racism in football.
The Manchester City star was honoured at the BT Sports Industry Awards on Thursday.
In an Instagram post last year, Sterling publicly condemned some newspapers' portrayals of black players.
And has been widely praised for speaking out on the issue.
And after he accepted the Integrity and Impact award, Sterling admitted the inspiring role Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard played in his personal development.
The winger played alongside the Rangers boss during his time at Anfield, and has praised the influence of his former team-mate.
The 24-year-old said: "Coming through at Liverpool I had people around me like Steven Gerrard that I looked up to.
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"Looking at him and thinking what can I do within myself to be half the person and player he was.
"You take little things and each year and day you try to develop and become better, not just on the field but off it as well."
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Sterling left Liverpool in 2015 to join City and has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season.
The England international has been a key part of Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho fires Liverpool Premier League title race warning title charge, contributing 17 goals and 12 assists with three games to play.
And earlier this week Sterling was named in the PFA's Team of the Year after another impressive campaign.
