Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has criticised Chelsea for their treatment of Raheem Sterling.

Sterling was left out of the squad for Sunday’s 2-0 defeat, as Enzo Maresca didn’t even deem him worthy of a place on the bench.

Enzo Maresca has said he plans to clear up the winger’s situation in the coming days, adding it was a “technical decision” to leave him out.

Ferdinand has now warned Chelsea about their treatment of the player, saying that the younger players at the club look up to him.

“I see all the young players, especially in that squad, talk about Raheem. It’s like ‘Uncle Raheem’. Cole Palmer, the likes of Reece James, it’s ‘Uncle Raheem,’” he said on Rio Ferdinand Presents.

“When you kick that guy in the changing room, all of them are going to limp at some point.”

It’s yet to be seen whether Sterling is in Enzo Maresca’s plans for the season.

Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling’s camp has released a statement, thus: “Raheem Sterling is contracted to Chelsea Football Club for the next three years.

“He returned to England two weeks early to conduct individual training, and has had a positive pre-season under the new coach, who he has developed a good working relationship with.

“He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level for Chelsea FC and the fans, who he holds in high regard, and given his inclusion in official club pre-match material this week, our expectation was that Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity.

“As a camp, we have always had positive dialogue with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC in relation to Raheem’s future at the club, so we look forward to gaining clarity on the situation.

“Until then, we will continue to support Raheem’s desire to start the new season positively.”