England boss Roy Hodgson says Raheem Sterling is 'ready to go now'

After Raheem Sterling won his move to Manchester City from Liverpool this summer, it seems like a weight has lifted from the 20-year-old's shoulders.

He has begun the Premier League campaign in storming form: his wide play has helped engineer more width for the Citizens and he has already formed a good understanding with his new teammate David Silva.

His international captain Wayne Rooney can see that Sterling is happier now.

"He's started the season excellently and settled in really well at Manchester City," he told reporters. "When you are going through what he did, trying to leave Liverpool, it can be quite difficult. But he seems a lot more relaxed and settled now, which is good for us."

Manager Roy Hodgson seemed equally confident that his club performances can be emulated on the international stage.

"He's ready to go now, and we’re hoping he brings his City form with him."

The former Queens Park Rangers trainee is tipped to be a pivotal part of England's future.

"It’s a big year for him, but he will have a lot of big years: France in 2016, Russia in 2018, 2020 all over Europe, and 2022 ... at his age he has plenty to look forward to.

"I'm sure that, one day, he will be sitting here with over 100 caps."

Danny Welbeck's injury and Daniel Sturridge's continued hip problems have automatically elevated Sterling into a more important role in the team. The attacker offers an air of unpredictability - something which England has lacked over the years - but Hodgson also has his eye on the basics of his position to see how he progresses this term.

"Assists and goals - for someone in his position, it always comes down to that."

Sterling was left out of the Saturday's 6-0 win over San Marino as he is one yellow card away from suspension. It is therefore probable he will start in Tuesday's qualifier against Switzerland, likely deputising for Leicester City forward Jamie Vardy.