Raheem Sterling’s ability to remain in the spotlight shows no signs of stopping.
The $76 million star, who moved from Liverpool to Manchester City after a long-winded transfer saga last week, scored within three minutes of his debut during a 2-2 draw against AS Roma in Melbourne, Australia.
Sterling, 20, ran clear of the Roma defense before slotting the ball into the far corner to open his account in this International Champions Cup game, a preseason friendly competition.
It was a quick riposte to the Liverpool supporters who had taken to Twitter to express their glee at one of Sterling’s early touches for City – a touch which saw him fall flat on the floor after losing his footing.
But Sterling, who scored 23 goals in 129 appearances, showed why City decided to spend big on him with a cool and composed finish after beating the offside trap.
The England international played the opening 45 minutes of the contest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before being rested for the second period.
Roma had equalized through Miralem Pjanic before City moved ahead after the interval courtesy of Kelechi Iheanacho’s neat finish.
The Italian side fought back to level once again, this time Adem Ljajić curling home a free-kick from just outside the penalty area.
The contest was eventually decided on penalties with City prevailing 5-4 courtesy of two saves by goalkeeper Joe Hart.
City’s first English Premier League game is on Monday August 10 at West Bromwich Albion.