Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling did not report for training on Wednesday citing illness, according to various media reports.
The development comes following reports that the unsettled England international requested not to participate in the club’s pre-season tour of the Far East and Australia.
Liverpool began pre-season training this week but it is believed Sterling telephoned on Wednesday morning to say that he was unwell. The club have not commented on the situation.
This development provides the latest twist in the Sterling saga that has rumbled on for much of the off-season.
Sterling, 20, and his representatives have made clear his desire to leave Liverpool this summer, with Manchester City, Arsenal, and Chelsea all thought to be interested.
While no bids were forthcoming from the two London clubs, City have made a pro-active effort to lure Sterling from Anfield, but have so far seen bids of £35m (Dh197m) and £40m rejected by Liverpool.
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @NatSportUAE
