James Milner says you can’t compare Jordon Ibe to Raheem Sterling

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James Milner has asked Liverpool fans not to expect too much of Jordon Ibe this season, while also playing down comparisons between his new teammate and former Reds star turned fans’ enemy Raheem Sterling.

Sterling, who is exactly one year older thn Ibe, of course left in bitter circumstances ten days ago.

Milner, one of seven new arrivals at Anfield this summer, has told the Liverpool Echo that he’s been highly impressed by teenage sensation Ibe since arriving at the club. However, he knows only too well that young talent needs time to thrive and prosper before reaching its full potential.

The former Manchester City man, now 29, was in a similar position when he burst on to the scene more than a decade ago. The England international was at Leeds United when he was handed his Premier League debut in 2002, aged just 16, and later that year he would become the youngest player to ever score in the top flight.

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A highly successful career has followed for him, culminating in two Premier League titles and two domestic cup victories during his time at the Etihad Stadium. He believes that Ibe can enjoy similar levels of success in the future but has emphasised the importance of not putting labels on him so early on.

“Jordon handles all the hype surrounding him very well,” said Milner. “I obviously watched him last season and since I joined the club I’ve seen that great ability he’s got.

“But I don’t think you want to add pressure by comparing him to other players. The fact is that Raheem is gone and we have to move on. Jordon is another young player with real ability. He’s still developing and learning.

“With the players he’s got around him and this manager – coupled with the ability he’s got – everything is there for him to go on and do well for Liverpool. With young players like Jordon, Divock Origi and Danny Ings, it’s an exciting time for the club.”

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