Raheem Sterling says British newspapers help 'fuel racism'

Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling has criticised British newspapers for "fueling racism" for the way they portray young black footballers. Sterling made the allegation after allegedly being the subject of racist abuse during City's 2-0 Premier League defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Chelsea and the Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident, which was captured on social media and widely shared. The England international, 24, took to Instagram on Sunday where he highlighted differences in reporting to two of his young teammates buying expensive houses for their mothers. "The young black kid is looked at in a bad light. Which helps fuel racism an(d) aggressive behaviour," Sterling wrote. "So for all the newspapers that don't understand why people are racist in this day and age all I have to say is have a second thought about fair publicity an(d) give all players an equal chance." Sterling received a barrage of abuse from home supporters as he retrieved the ball from behind the goal during the first half of the Chelsea match. The former Liverpool player said he was not surprised by the behaviour of the fans but did not elaborate on what was said. "I just want to say, I am not normally the person to talk a lot but when I think I need my point heard I will speak up," he posted. "Regarding what was said at the Chelsea game, as you can see by my reaction I just had to laugh because I don't expect no better." Sterling referred to headlines about Tosin Adarabioyo and fellow City youngster Phil Foden buying houses in his social media post. Adarabioyo, 21, who is black, reportedly paid £2.25 million (Dh10.5m) to buy his mother a house, according to the Daily Mail , despite having never played a first-team game for the club, while 18-year-old Foden, who is white, was described as having "set up a future" for his mother after paying £2m for a new home. _____________ Read more: Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City were 'absolutely incredible' in defeat to Chelsea Raheem Sterling in the firing line as critics attack Man City and England forward's assault rifle tattoo _____________ "You have two young players starting out their careers - both play for the same team, both have done the right thing, which is buy a new house for their mothers who have put in a lot of time and love into helping them get where they are," Sterling wrote. "But look at how the newspapers get their message across for the young black player and then for the young white player. "I think this is unacceptable, both innocent, have not done a thing wrong but just by the way it has been worded." Sterling has frequently found himself at the centre of attention throughout his career, most recently for a tattoo of a rifle on his leg earlier this year. He later defended the tattoo, saying it had a "deeper meaning" and referred to his late father, who was shot to death in Kingston, Jamaica. That followed criticism of purchasing clothes at a popular high-street chain Primark, buying sausage rolls at popular bakery Greggs, and even for buying his mother a house.