As Pep Guardiola's Manchester City advances upon the Champions League group phase, previously maligned winger Raheem Sterling has been reborn.

Sterling, 21, joined City from Liverpool in a fractious $57.8 million move last year, but flattered to deceive and ultimately lost his place in the starting lineup.

He was also derided for some insipid England displays at Euro 2016, but appears to be thriving under Guardiola and inspired City to a 5-0 win at Steaua Bucharest in its Champions League playoff round first leg.