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Premier League legends, Peter Crouch and Joe Cole have defended— and praised Raheem Sterling for his hard work and professionalism since he joined Chelsea, despite the lack of respect he gets sometimes.

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City last season, after a £47.5m fee was agreed by both sides.

The 28-year-old has been one of the Blues best players since he arrived at Stamford Bridge, especially this season, with four goal contributions to his credit so far.

Sterling was snubbed for England’s games during the last international break, but both Crouch and Cole have heaped praise on the forward, who they believe doesn’t get as much respect as he deserves.

Crouch told TNT Sports: “He’s had a difficult start to his Chelsea career but sometimes there’s a lack of respect towards Raheem Sterling.

“I feel like he’s been one of England’s best players for a long time. He’s scored so many goals in the Premier League, he’s consistently performed at the highest level.

“You look at that team, Thiago Silva is the man with all the experience but if you’re talking Premier League experience, Raheem has been playing since he was 18 at big clubs – Liverpool, Manchester City and now Chelsea.

“The young lads like Cole Palmer can look to him for advice and he can show them the way.”

Cole added: “I’m absolutely delighted for Raheem and delighted for the club. When he signed he was the big name. He came from Manchester City where he won everything and was a top, top player.

“He came into mayhem [at Chelsea] – change of ownership, change of managers, all sorts. But he’s been brilliant and he’s really done what I thought he would do, leading this young group of players.”