Gareth Southgate has revealed Raheem Sterling has apologised to his England team-mates after reporting late for their World Cup training camp.
Sterling had been due to arrive at St George's Park last Tuesday, a day later than the bulk of the squad due to a personal commitment which delayed his post-season holiday in Jamaica.
But his return flight stopped in Miami rather than continuing direct to England, meaning the Manchester City winger did not arrive until the following morning.
Sterling phoned ahead to warn of the delay, but England boss Southgate took him aside to discuss the matter further when he belatedly checked in at the national football centre.
Southgate has made it clear he demands the highest professional standards and the 23-year-old got the message that he had to take his England commitments seriously.
A chastened Sterling asked Southgate if he could say sorry to the squad for his lateness.
"He was given off until the Tuesday night and he arrived on the Wednesday morning, so he was late," Southgate said.
"There was a mix-up on flights and a connection. In fairness to him he wanted to apologise to the group, explained his commitment to the team, and it's done.
"That was accepted and everybody has moved on."
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