Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was in contact with Raheem Sterling last week during the fallout from his row with Liverpool defender Joe Gomez.

Sterling was axed from the England squad for the qualifier against Montenegro following a bust up with Gomez.

The Sun says Guardiola sent the winger a text of encouragement just to check he was OK after initially being exiled by Gareth Southgate, before being recalled.

He also reminded Sterling to 'do his talking on the pitch.'

Sterling featured in the game in Kosovo and has been back training at the CFA this week ahead of the game against Chelsea.

Asked how Sterling had been since his return, Guardiola said: “He's good. I spoke with him and he's fine.

“He said Gomez is an excellent guy, they have a good relationship, it sometimes happens."