England's Raheem Sterling has hailed Jadon Sancho's work ethic and is not surprised the 18-year-old has eased seamlessly into international football.
The Borussia Dortmund winger replaced Sterling with 12 minutes remaining in England's goalless draw with Croatia on Friday to become the first player born this millennium to represent the Three Lions.
Sancho impressed during his short cameo and Sterling – who trained alongside him at Manchester City before the former's move to the Bundesliga in August 2017 – always knew he had what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
"He is a really good talent and someone I've thought highly of since the first time I saw him at Manchester City when he was training with us in pre-season," Sterling told reporters.
"I thought highly of him - his work ethic and what he does with the ball. I know him really well and he's someone that is really modest but when he's on the field he wants to express his ability."
Sancho surprised many when he moved to Germany last year, but Sterling believes his team-mate made the right decision for his career.
A real honour putting the England shirt on tonight and representing my country. Thank you to everyone for the messages! The journey continues.... October 12, 2018
"For someone so young to back themselves to go abroad is a credit to them," he added.
"To go abroad so young and back yourself, that shows a lot about the person. He could have taken the easy route and stayed at City but he saw himself developing better.
"That's what it's about in football - you have to judge your own situation and he did that perfectly and all credit to him.
"He has knuckled down in Germany and, when you're that age, it's probably something you need. To have that seclusion and be by yourself a bit and to concentrate solely on football. I'm really happy for him."
