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England coach Hodgson discusses Sterling controversy

England coach Roy Hodgson says he's spoken to Liverpool midfielder Raheem Sterling after last month's controversy.

Sterling is included in the squad, having been left out of England's starting line-up for last month's Euro 2016 qualifier in Estonia.

Hodgson revealed Sterling had told him he was tired, which led to accusations the 19-year-old had said he did not want to play.

Those claims have been refuted by Hodgson, who stressed again on Thursday Sterling has been "unfairly treated".

Asked if he has spoken to Sterling about the media fall-out, Hodgson said: "I speak to Raheem all of the time.

"As far as I am concerned, I had a chat with him, which was an unfortunate one, it is over and I have nothing to say or to add to all of the things which have been said so far.

"My personal view was he has been unfairly treated, I am disappointed for him and he knows that, but our relationship's a very, very good one.

"If you say there is things to learn, we will probably both learn from them, although I don't really understand how it is a clear mistake to tell the truth when you are asked questions about why you have not chosen a player.

"He did nothing wrong and I have got to be honest I don't think I did anything wrong either.

"Other people might have other opinions."

Hodgson added: "I have basically said already more than I wanted to say.

"It is a chapter which as far as I am concerned is a month old, it lasted a week, a lot was done in that week, but I am really interested in the present and the future.

"All I can say is I have great respect for Raheem Sterling.

"I agree with Steven Gerrard - I think he is going to do wonderful things for England in the future, and I am very happy that our relationship has been extremely good and will continue to be extremely good going forwards."

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