FA Cup Semi-Finals: Sterling arranges 550 tickets for kids from his old school to watch Man City vs Brighton

Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling - ManchesterEveningNews

Raheem Sterling has arranged for 550 kids from his old school to watch Manchester City play at Wembley on Saturday.

The Blues star has worked with the club to ensure that pupils of his old school, Ark Elvin Academy, which is within sight of the Arch, will be at the game when City take on Brighton in the FA Cup semi-final.

The 24-year-old England star has stumped up from his own pocket, and is helping sort out transport for the children.

The idea was Sterling 's own initiative, and after approaching City, he and the club worked out a plan between them.

Sterling grew up close to Wembley Stadium, living in a house on Neeld Crescent from where the stadium – which was being rebuilt during his school days – is visible.

Sterling spoke about his London childhood last year, saying:

“I was from Wembley. I lived in Wembley. I lived on an estate for a month until my mum got the place in Wembley. From eight to 14, I lived in Wembley.

“It's not the poshest area but for me it was an unbelievable area. My school was five minutes walk away."