Former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne has said that Raheem Sterling should not worry about criticism he has received from supporters.
The Liverpool winger was jeered by the crowd during England's friendly international against the Republic of Ireland on Sunday due to his ongoing contract dispute with the Merseysiders.
Gascoigne believes that the 20-year-old should feel encouraged by the fact that he was singled out.
"There are 11 players on the pitch and Raheem was picked out," Gascoigne told BBC Radio 5 live. "That means he is doing something right, because Roy knows he is a great player.
"I'd say to Sterling if you are getting kicked left, right and centre and getting booed it is because they are scared. They don't want you on the ball because you are dangerous. Take it as a compliment. The time to worry is when they stop talking about you."
England played out a goalless draw with Ireland in Dublin.
Steven Toplis
