Sterling 'can handle the flak', Fernandinho

Manchester City's Raheem Sterling in action at the pre-season friendly against VfB Stuttgart. Credit: Press Association

Raheem Sterling is tough enough to handle any crowd abuse this season, according to new Manchester City team-mate Fernandinho.

England forward Sterling will be the main focus of attention as he makes his City debut in their Barclays Premier League opener at West Brom tonight.

Sterling joined City from Liverpool in an acrimonious £49million transfer over the summer that attracted much negative publicity.

The 20-year-old's reputation has suffered considerably and in recent months he has been booed on England duty and during City pre-season games.

That could spill over into the season but midfielder Fernandinho believes he will take it in his stride.

Fernandinho, Manchester City Credit: Press Association.