Manchester City midfielder Raheem Sterling admits the criticism coming his way has hurt.

The City star has opened up on his struggles with dealing with the criticism that comes his way.

“[I am thinking] if I go out tonight, something bad is going to happen. I will will try to stay in as much as I can, watch TV and no one can say anything," he told Copa 90.

"Anything that happens my mum is always on the phone. She is more the one who is stronger than me. She will tell me how to get through, not to pay attention, but there have been times when she is close to breaking."

And he admits he has even been forced to over-think what he does on the pitch, such has been the negative reaction at his performances.

"I remember my first game at the Euros, I thought I did all right. Got past my opponent a couple of times, got a couple of balls in and you just get caned. Now I am constantly thinking, 'If I do this, something bad will come of it," Sterling added.