Daily Times

LONDON: Manchester City and England forward Raheem Sterling was on Saturday named in Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday Honours list in recognition of his work to promote racial equality in sport. The 26-year-old, who has been heavily involved in anti-racism and anti-discrimination campaigns, has been made an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire). Sterling, a Premier League and League Cup winner with City this season, has been subjected to racial slurs in stadiums and online during his career. In 2019, he took part in an anti-racism campaign, “No Room For Racism” and spoke out last year as the Black Lives Matter movement gained traction following the murder of George Floyd in the United States. The award comes just days after England players were booed by fans for taking the knee to protest against racial injustice before friendly matches ahead of Euro 2020. Almost a quarter, or 262 people, on the main honours list, which rewards individuals’ bravery, service or achievement in their fields, have been recommended for coronavirus-related activities. Liverpool and England midfielder Jordan Henderson received an MBE for services to football and charity, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.