O'Hara backs Sterling for Tottenham swoop after Chelsea exit

Raheem Sterling's Chelsea career has come to an abrupt end, with the club confirming his departure on Wednesday following mutual agreement. The winger arrived at Stamford Bridge in summer 2022 from Manchester City but failed to establish himself as a key player during his time in West London.

A Chelsea statement released following the exit read: "Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement, bringing to an end three-and-a-half seasons as our player, having signed in the summer of 2022 when he was transferred from Manchester City. We thank Raheem for the contribution he made while a Chelsea player and wish him well for the next stage in his career."

Sterling's final campaign proved particularly troublesome. After spending last season on loan at Arsenal, he managed just seven Premier League starts across 27 total appearances for the Gunners. The north London club opted against making his move permanent, leaving him consigned to Enzo Maresca's 'bomb squad' upon his return to Chelsea—effectively sidelined with no pathway back into contention.

The former England international now faces eight months without competitive football, a concerning void in his career trajectory. Yet former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara reckons there could be a lifeline waiting in North London, tipping Spurs as potential suitors for the experienced winger.

Speaking on talkSPORT, O'Hara made a compelling case: "I would absolutely take Sterling at Tottenham. I think he's a good player. He's better than what we've got."

The ex-midfielder suggested a pragmatic approach to any potential deal, advocating for a short-term arrangement rather than lengthy commitment. "I'd sign him on a contract to the end of the season if he was willing to do that," O'Hara explained, acknowledging that Sterling's options may extend beyond English football.

"I don't know what other offers he's got in terms of, he might have a long-term contract in Saudi offering him loads of money. But if the candle is still lit and he wants to still be a Premier League football player I would give him an opportunity at Tottenham."

O'Hara pointed to Sterling's mindset as reason for optimism, suggesting the winger retains sufficient hunger to perform at the highest level. "I think he still has the desire. He's been training on his own and he's had his contract paid up. He wouldn't have got the full settlement so he's basically turned around to them and said I can't be here anymore I need to go and play."

With Tottenham requiring reinforcement on the left flank, O'Hara believes Sterling merits consideration as a free agent option. "Spurs need a left winger. Now, I'm not saying you give him a long-term deal but I'd give him a contract if he was on offer on a free, you get Sterling in a football club. I think he's a good player. I think he could still produce moments. I think if he got his confidence back and a bit of belief I would have him at Tottenham."