Raheem Sterling: How Chelsea star's sister Lakima "sacrificed her life" for him

Chelsea star Raheem Sterling has released his fourth signature boot with New Balance.

The “Route to Success” boot celebrates Sterling’s commitment to football from a young age, and the sacrifices his sister Lakima made in the early days of his career.

Sterling wore the boots during Chelsea’s 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, and they are now available to purchase from New Balance.

Sterling began his career for Queens Park Rangers, attending the club’s training centre five times a week. This required him to get three buses there and back – the 18, 182 and 140.

The youngster’s stepsister Lakima would accompany her brother on the bus to training every day, sacrificing her evenings to help him achieve his dreams.

Sterling’s New Balance boot pay homage to Lakima, featuring her name and the three bus route numbers on the soleplate.

It has the same design as the prints used on the bus seats, and the “Route to Success” strapline acknowledges the dedication required to become a professional football star.

“3 buses to get to training,” Sterling wrote on Twitter. “18, 182 and 140. I’ll never forget those numbers. No matter what, my big sister Lakima with me every single day.

“My latest boot is dedicated to her and all those moments we shared together, on the #RouteToSuccess.”

3 buses to get to training. 18, 182 and 140. I'll never forget those numbers. No matter what, my big sister Lakima with me every single day. My latest boot is dedicated to her and all those moments we shared together, on the #RouteToSuccess.@NBFootball pic.twitter.com/SsRt2RhhtC

Sterling, who has played for Liverpool and Manchester City during an illustrious career, has previously opened up about the sacrifices his family made for him.

“My mum would never let