Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling says he misses playing for England because it is “one of the best feelings you can ever have”.

The 29-year-old has not played for his country since the 2022 World Cup, when he flew home during the tournament in Qatar due to a family emergency.

Former coach Gareth Southgate has since excluded the striker from several teams, including his squad for Euro 2024.

Southgate resigned after the defeat to Spain in the final and the Football Association has not yet named his successor, but Under-21 coach Lee Carsley is expected to take over as interim manager for the Nations League matches in September.

When asked if he missed the England team camp, Sterling said: “Of course I love playing for England. It’s one of the best feelings you can have.”

“I enjoyed watching the boys out there. To be honest, those were the only games I watched – the England ones. I love playing for England.”

“I’m definitely looking forward to playing in the England team again.”

Sterling’s chances of returning to the England national team due to his remarkable individual performances are likely to increase if Chelsea improve this season after two years of underperforming since his £50 million move from Manchester City.

Enzo Maresca, who worked under Pep Guardiola at City, is now Chelsea manager and Sterling expects a familiar style of play from him.

“He can get the best out of me, the best out of the team,” he added. “He came and showed his authority, the way he wants to play.”

“Yes, some of the results were not pleasing, but with the ball the right information is passed on. You can see the patterns.”

“It’s early days so you can see where we’re going. It’s a learning process for the whole group and one that we’re grasping really quickly.

“The Premier League is just around the corner, so I think good times are ahead for us.”

Sterling played in all five of Chelsea’s friendlies during their pre-season tour of the USA, scoring one goal and providing one assist.