R's teen sensation Raheem Sterling shone on his debut for the England Under-16's in the Victory Shield last night.

The 14 year-old midfielder, who has featured regularly for the R's Under-18's this season, entered the fray as a second half substitute against Northern Ireland at the Deva Stadium and made an immediate impact.

Sterling's trickery paved the way for Blair Turgott to notch the Young Lions' opening goal, before the R's youngster fed Matthias Fanimo to seal the win in stoppage-time.

QPR's Head of Youth Development Steve Gallen told www.qpr.co.uk: "Raheem was excellent and he changed the game when he came on.

"It was no surprise to me, in all honesty. I was at the game and spoke with him afterwards. As you can imagine, he was absolutely buzzing.

"He was the youngest boy on the pitch, but it certainly didn't look like that. He plays in a way that belies his years.

"He's clever, his decision-making was good and he is clearly a very talented lad."

Sterling's development has led to speculation suggesting a number of Premier League outfits are interested in him. Gallen, however, is determined to see Sterling remain at QPR.

"He wants to stay here, and his mum wants him to stay here," Gallen revealed. "He loves the place, and we all love him.

"Everyone here is aware of him, from the Chairman through to Jim Magilton and John Gorman. I don't see any reason why he would want to leave."

Despite increased coverage of the youngster's talent, Gallen believes keeping Sterling's feet on the ground won't be a problem.

"That isn't going to be an issue," he added. "Sitting in the stand watching the game last night, I personally thought some of the lads had a bit of arrogance about them.

"But I didn't see that in Raheem at all. He just loves to play football.

"I have known him now for a number of years and there isn't an ounce of arrogance in him, none whatsoever.

"He is a very important part of our team."