Raheem Sterling will cap his phenomenal 2019 with a nomination for the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award, according to Mail
Sportsmail understands the Manchester City star will be shortlisted for next month’s vote following an incredible 12 months on and off the pitch.
Sterling was instrumental in helping Pep Guardiola’s side to an historic domestic treble last season. He also emerged as England’s most influential player as he helped Gareth Southgate’s side finish third in the UEFA Nations League and qualify for Euro 2020.
But the SPOTY nomination also recognises Sterling’s inspirational work in the fight against racism in football. He received acclaim for the way he dealt with being racially abused during City’s clash with Chelsea last season and has become a leading anti-racism campaigner.
The 24-year-old will face stiff competition from World Cup-winning England cricketer Ben Stokes, who is the odds-on favourite to land the award.