Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling is “not even a consideration” for the England 2022 World Cup squad, according to BBC Radio 5 Live pundit Pat Nevin.

Sterling was taken off in the 63rd minute as Chelsea lost 4-1 to Brighton on Saturday. It was a very unwelcome return to Amex Stadium for manager Graham Potter.

As reported by BBC Sport, the attacker touched the ball just 35 times in the match. That was fewer than any Chelsea starter other than goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Sterling also gave the ball away on 18 occasions. That was more often than any other player on the pitch.

The former Manchester City and Liverpool man last scored for Chelsea in mid-September. He has four goals in 16 appearances for the Blues.

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Chelsea attacker “having a really, really bad time”

England boss Gareth Southgate must submit his final squad by 13 November. The Three Lions then take on Iran on 21 November in game one.

This is followed by meetings with the USA and Wales. They take place on 25 November and 29 November respectively.

But BBC pundit Nevin believes Chelsea forward Sterling is currently not an option for Southgate.

Nevin, who played for Chelsea for five years, says the attacker is “having a really, really bad time.

“I’m watching Raheem Sterling right now and I’ve said that Graham Potter has got the best from every player since he has been there – with one exception.

“If he keeps playing the way he is right now, he’s not even a consideration for the World Cup.”

Chelsea forward subject to Potter’s variations

Chelsea boss Potter has utilised Sterling in various positions this season. It includes roles in centre-forward, left-wing and right midfield.

The constant switching has perhaps caused some instability in the attacker. It comes as he aims to settle in at Chelsea after his summer switch from Man City.

But such flexibility may just be crucial in Qatar. Weather and injuries will most certainly play a part this winter.

And Southgate will want to be able to rely on versatile players. Sterling is one of those players, and is capable of operating anywhere across the frontline.

Speaking of Sterling before the Brighton match, Potter said: “He’s got flexibility, ability and quality to play in several positions.

“You’re constantly trying to find the right balance and the right solutions.

“As a team, we can do better. If we do better as a team, then individuals will benefit from that. That’s where the work is.”

Sterling key to Three Lions in recent years

Chelsea forward Sterling made his England debut back in 2012. Since then, he has been a regular for the Three Lions. He has 19 goals from 79 matches for his country.

While Nevin believes there is currently no space for Sterling in the current squad, his track record for England may just earn him a spot for the 2022 World Cup.

Sterling played five of England’s six matches in the recent UEFA Nations League campaign.

There is, however, the likes of Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden vying for attacking places. Jarrod Bowen and James Maddison will also be in contention.

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