David Beckham lashes out at Raheem Sterling critics after England ace criticised for Sweden performance
The former Three Lions captain says those laying into the England forward are 'wrong'
DAVID BECKHAM has lashed out at critics of Raheem Sterling, calling them simply “wrong”.
The Manchester City forward was castigated by some for missing chances in the defeat of Sweden.
Former England coach Gary Neville called Sterling’s half-time treatment on social media “absolutely disgusting”.
And Beckham said on Instagram: “It's wrong. We are in the semi-final of a World Cup. Every player deserves to be applauded.
“We as a country are united and behind the team.”
World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst argued Sterling turned in his finest performance of the tournament on Saturday.
His pace caused the Swedes problems and Hurst admired the way he got behind their back line. He said: “Raheem Sterling was terrific. He did more than in the other games, he was key in turning the defence, looked enormously fit.
"The runs he was making, it is a key factor as a front player.
“When I was under Ron Greenwood at West Ham, he would say to turn defenders around. Defenders are happy if you’re in front, you want to stretch them — do it until their tongues hang out.
“He had chances he could have done a bit more with but he was terrific.”
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Sterling paid tribute to the Three Lion supporters after the win in Samara.
He wrote on Twitter: “Today, I want to thank all that have and continue to support @England as a team.
“This has helped us achieve what can only be described as a dream!!!
"To reach the semi-finals of a World Cup . . . WOW! We go again.”
