Raheem Sterling discusses his England ambitions [MATT HOLYOAK/ESQUIRE]Sterling has become a key player for the Reds this season, shining brightly as Brendan Rodgers' side mount an unlikely title challenge.
The former QPR winger has impressed many observers with 10 goals in 36 appearances for Liverpool this campaign, not least England manager Roy Hodgson.
And ahead of this summer's World Cup in Brazil, Sterling has revealed how he got his Samba-style nickname 'Heemio'.
"In the school football league, I used to do loads of unnecessary tricks, that's why they used to call me Heemio," Sterling told Esquire magazine.
"I've matured a lot since then, but whenever there needs to be a trick I'll throw one in."
Sterling, 19, is at ease among his more senior England team-mates [MATT HOLYOAK/ESQUIRE]In the school football league, I used to do loads of unnecessary tricks, that's why they used to call me Heemio
Sterling is desperate to be included in Hodgson's Three Lions squad for the finals in Brazil, admitting his role model is World Cup winner Ronaldinho.
"For his silky skills," Sterling says of the former Barcelona star. "I've not met him, but if I did, I'd get him to do some kick-ups. He could never get rusty."
Sterling was handed his first England cap at 17, and has been tipped by many to make the plane for Brazil this summer.
Sterling has impressed many observes with his form at Liverpool this season [MATT HOLYOAK/ESQUIRE]The 19-year-old insists he is comfortable in the presence of more senior players in the Three Lions camp, despite spending a lot of his time on international duty with Arsenal youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
"Just playing my natural game and not being too shy," Sterling says of how he got his England debut.
"I used to be a lot more greedy than I am now - now I'm a bit more for the team. As a young player, you can't be going in thinking you can dribble past everyone. Someone is bound to slide-tackle you or give you a dead leg.
"You expect it to be a bit more awkward [when the England squad link up], but everyone gets on really well.
"Everyone plays a bit of Fifa together, or ping-pong. I think it's just about getting to know each other, and then everyone's friends straight after that.
Sterling has been tipped to make England's World Cup squad this summer [GETTY]One of the players' favourite past-times in table tennis, and Sterling reveals close friend Chamberlain is among the best hitters.
"I would say me, but there's a few other good ones, like Chambo," he adds.
"I don't know [who's the best], but he knows. Deep down, he knows.
Sterling is focused on finishing the season strongly with Liverpool, but is happy to let his thoughts wander towards Brazil.
"My ultimate dream is to get there," he concludes. "If I get there, I'll be really happy."
This month's edition of Esquire magazine [/ESQUIRE]
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