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England star's perfect response to 'racist' rival fans

England forward Raheem Sterling has gestured at his ears while celebrating his goal as a riposte to a section of Montenegro fans who directed ‘racist’ chants towards the players.

England’s impressive start in Group A continued with a win in Montenegro but the 5-1 victory was overshadowed by racist chanting.

Marko Vesovic’s early strike had the hosts dreaming but Michael Keane’s equaliser, Ross Barkley’s brace and goals from Harry Kane and Sterling sealed the three points at the Gradski Stadion.

Raheem Sterling from England celebrates his goal against Montenegro. (Getty Image)
Raheem Sterling from England celebrates his goal against Montenegro. (Getty Image)

Sterling made a gesture with his ears towards the Montenegro fans after scoring and there were monkey chants aimed at Danny Rose towards the end.

“To be honest with you, I didn’t hear it personally, but Danny [Rose] made it clear that’s what they were doing. I just wanted to show them that you’re going to need more than that to upset us and stop us because what can I do?” he said.

“We know, all of us know what skin colour we are, so I don’t know what the big issue is, it’s not like you’re telling us anything new.”

The England and Manchester City forward said it was time for UEFA to take a stronger stance on racism, which could include the home team playing in front of an empty stadium.

“We can only bring awareness and light to the situation. It’s time for the people in charge to put a real stamp on it. You can fine them but what’s that going to do? You’ve got to do something that’s going to make them think twice,” he added.

“In England we have a diverse country and lots of different faces…I can only do so much. The people in charge need to make a proper stance.”

England Manager Gareth Southgate confirmed he heard the chants and the welfare of his players was his number one priority.

“I definitely heard abuse of Danny Rose when he got booked at the end – it’s not acceptable,” Southgate said.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that happened. I know what I heard. We’ll definitely deal with it in the right way and we have to make sure we support our players.”