Liverpool legend John Barnes has said that he thinks Raheem Sterling is too young to leave the club, in favour to rumoured moves to Manchester City or Real Madrid.

Barnes, who made 407 appearances for the club, was speaking before Raheem Sterling was named the Young Player of the Year at Liverpool FC Annual Awards.

It has been reported that Sterling will tell club officials that he does not plan to sign a new contract, despite having two years left on his contract.

The 20 year old was booed by some fans last night while accepting his award, and Barnes feels Sterling should look at the career paths of Jack Rodwell and Scott Sinclair who signed for Manchester City after promising early careers. Rodwell is now at relegation threatened Sunderland and Sinclair signed a four year contract with Aston Villa yesterday after impressing on a loan spell.