England full-back Danny Rose has praised his international team-mate Raheem Sterling for criticising the portrayal of black players in the media.
Sterling, who has often been targeted by negative headlines, used Instagram to highlight the disparity in the way stories involving black players were reported by newspapers.
In the wake of being allegedly abused by Chelsea fans, Sterling posted conflicting headlines about Manchester City duo Tosin Adarabioyo and Phil Foden buying houses.
“Raheem was only saying what we all say in the dressing room,” Rose told BBC Sport.
“It’s sad really but he’s 100 per cent spot on with what he said.
“The stick he used to get from the media was bang out of order. When he put the post up about the media we were all over the moon with that because we all agree. Fair play to Raheem.
“One of the few positive things about social media now is you have a voice and you can influence people.
“Now it’s not just boys in the dressing room talking about the media targeting Raheem, the general public have now seen it.
“We hope it changes but it doesn’t affect Raheem in any way, which we are all grateful for.”
Rose also thanked his Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate for the support he received in the wake of revelation that he suffered from depression.
The Tottenham left-back disclosed his diagnosis with the mental health condition before the World Cup.
He added: “It was one of the best things I’ve done.
“Looking back I would have maybe said something after the World Cup. For a short space of time the focus was on me and I was a bit uncomfortable with that.
“The messages and support I received was amazing. I probably wish I had done it sooner than I did, but I did it and I’m happy.
“Gareth was brilliant. He always is whenever I speak to him.
“We went for a walk on the morning it came out and he just gave me some advice. All through the World Cup he was checking on me.
“When I’m not with the squad I am in contact with him.”
