The number 13 is said to be unlucky and it certainly was for former Brent schoolboy Raheem Sterling as he was sent off for England in Miami last night.
Sterling, who grew up on the St Raphael’s Estate in Neasden, became the 13th player to be sent off in Three Lions history when he was dismissed in a 2-2 draw with Ecuador.
He launched into a wild challenge on Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia just 14 minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute at the Sun Life Stadium.
No ban will be carried over into the World Cup in Brazil, which will no doubt come as a relief for the Liverpool player as he looks to make a big impact in Brazil.
Ecuador skipper Valencia said: "I am sorry for the fight with Sterling. England are the best team we've played so far. I apologised to the team after the match and the coach.
“When he (Sterling) tackled me I thought about Segundo Castillo. He nearly missed the World Cup because of injury and I feared I would too, but thankfully I am OK.
“I was happy with our performance in the second half and that of my cousin (Enner Valencia). He is a real goal scorer.”
Sterling attended Oakington Manor and Copland Community Schools in Brent.
Read his fairytale rise to the World Cup here.
