Roy Hodgson: 'Raheem Sterling must be handled carefully'

England boss Roy Hodgson has admitted that he may be forced to rest Raheem Sterling if he shows signs of burning out.

The Liverpool winger has become a crucial player for club and country over the past year, and Hodgson has conceded that he has to be wary of expecting too much of the 19-year-old at this early stage of his career.

He told reporters: "We are conscious of managing [the expectation]. I don't think it will need managing until he shows signs of suffering from it.

"He is not alone in that. But when Raheem shows signs of not being quite as sharp, not doing as well, trying too hard, that might be the moment we think we have to manage this and give him a break.

"That is not the case at the moment and I don't think Liverpool need to worry. His first half against San Marino was as lively as it could have been."

Sterling has made 10 appearances for the Three Lions, but has failed to find the net at international level.