The 31-year-old winger came off the bench just after the hour mark to replace Gijs Smal during Feyenoord’s 2-1 Eredivisie victory over Telstar at De Kuip, where he received a warm welcome from home fans.
Asked about contact with Tuchel regarding a return to the national team, Sterling told ESPN: “I haven't spoken with him. Just keep playing football, that's what's most important.”
Loan Move and Pre-Debut Preparations
Sterling joined Feyenoord on loan from Chelsea until the end of the season. Before making his debut, he trained with the squad in Belgium due to delays in obtaining a work permit for the Netherlands.
“Been a great introduction,” Sterling said of his early days at Feyenoord. “The trip to Belgium, I think that was for myself a very good one to get integrated with the boys, and get to know your teammates and know what they're about, so it was very enjoyable.”
Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie had previously indicated that while Sterling’s quality is “exceptional,” he was not yet ready for a full 90-minute outing.
“Good to start your first game with a win, think that's the most important. With the targets that we're chasing, so a good debut,” Sterling said, emphasizing the step-by-step process of regaining match fitness.
Return After a Long Absence
Sterling’s last competitive appearance came on May 25, 2025, during a loan spell at Arsenal in a 2-1 victory over Southampton. He has not featured for the England national team since the 2022 FIFA World Cup, leaving fans curious about a potential international return.
With his Feyenoord debut behind him and match fitness gradually improving, Sterling appears focused on contributing to his new team while leaving the question of an England comeback for the future.