‘More to come from Sterling’

Chelsea manager Graham Potter said forward Raheem Sterling has been through a challenging phase at the London club following his move from Manchester City but backed the England international to deliver more.

Chelsea signed Sterling from City for about 47.5 million pounds ($57.3 million) in July but his performances have been underwhelming with six goals in 21 games in all competitions this season.

Sterling will face his former club City in the Premier League on Thursday at Stamford Bridge before the teams meet again in the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

"It's been a challenge for him but it's been a challenging period for everybody," Potter told reporters on Wednesday, as his team sit 10th in the table, 11 points behind second-placed City.

"There is more to come from Raheem I'm sure but he gives his best every day and we need to help him get to the level we know he can reach."