Gray reveals Sterling respect

Sterling was allegedly on the receiving end of abuse during the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Brudge last weekend, with the winger later taking to social media to hit out at the alleged abusers.

Speaking to 'Sky Sports', Gray said that he too had been the victim of such abuse in the past and hailed Sterling from bringing the issue to light.

"At the Euros, two years ago, we were in Poland, and we knew it was quite hostile out there," he recalled.

"There were monkey chants towards a few of our players and we are aware that it still goes on - and with England we are warned about these things.

"But you don't expect it and it's not nice to hear it and experience it.

"I think it is one of those things in football that you can't do much to change. If that is how people are, that's how people are.

"But the best thing you can do is make people aware. I think what Raheem has done is good and it is about time someone stood up for themselves and spoke out like he has.

"I respect Raheem for making that decision.

"This is the best thing he could have done. He didn't go about it in a negative way on social media, he was grown up and mature and brave.

"I think the responses and respect he has got from that are what he deserves."

When quizzed on how he would like the issue to be dealt with in the future, Gray said he hoped that players who speak out on the issue will be supported by their peers.

"As players, if we get support if we need support and understanding, and if you want to be a player who steps up and speaks about it, you just get respect after that," he explained.

"Because I have seen a few things on social media, people talking about what Raheem has done, and it is like they are trying to undermine him.

"I think it's crazy personally and I think what Raheem has done has alerted a lot of people."