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Liverpool not expected to investigate Raheem Sterling incident

Liverpool's English midfielder Raheem Sterling reacts during the English Premier League football match
Image: Sterling made both the front and back pages of Tuesday's Sun newspaper

Liverpool will not investigate footage of Raheem Sterling appearing to inhale nitrous oxide, Sky Sports understands.

Pictures published on The Sun's website appeared to show Sterling passing out unconscious after taking the substance, which is described as a legal high.

The report surfaced as Sterling was playing - and scoring the opening goal - in Liverpool's Premier League game against Newcastle at Anfield on Monday night.

Brendan Rodgers said Sterling's behaviour is not of a top sportsman and that he will speak to the 20-year-old later this week.

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PFA Deputy Chief Executive Bobby Barnes believes Raheem made a mistake but he should not be vilified.

The Professional Footballers Association will take no action with the organisation's deputy chief executive Bobby Barnes describing the incident as a “blip” on Sterling’s career.

“I think it’s clear that it’s not a situation that is desirable,” Barnes told Sky Sports News HQ.

“But at the same time it is a learning process and he hasn’t committed a crime. Yes, it’s not ideal but he’s at a good football club, he’s got good people around him and I’ve no doubt Brendan will put his arm around him and at the same time make him aware of his responsibilities.

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Speaking on Monday Night Football Jamie Carragher said Raheem Sterling will eventually look back on this part of his career as a learning curve.

'Contract talks'

The incident comes after a recent stand-off between the player and club over a new contract, with Sterling having rejected a new deal.

Liverpool have now confirmed they will not discuss a new deal with Sterling until the end of this season, after a request from the forward's agent.

Reds chief executive Ian Ayre said: "Raheem's agent has asked that we park all discussions regards his future until the summer. We respect that.

"Raheem is a Liverpool player and has over two years left on his contract. We expect Raheem Sterling to be here for a long time."

Sky Sports subscribers can sign in to watch extended highlights of Liverpool's win over Newcastle.

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