Manchester City ace Kevin de Bruyne is convinced Raheem Sterling is set for a big World Cup.

Sterling enjoyed his finest season in City's Premier League title-winning campaign, plundering 23 goals for Pep Guardiola's rampant, record-breaking side.

“He's a special player," the Belgium midfielder told the Mirror. “This season he was playing at such a high level and he's only going to get better.

“He's a winner — any criticism he has faced in the last few weeks I know he will just ignore.

“At Manchester City he's so focused on success and I know he would have the same attitude with England.

“He scored many goals last season, but he scored important goals too — goals that won games in the last minute – and that takes a special type of player.

“On the big occasions he has the confidence — that is why I think he will light up the World Cup."