Handing Raheem Sterling a start in England's World Cup warm-up win over Nigeria on Saturday was an easy call for Gareth Southgate to make, the manager said.
Manchester City star Sterling came in for heavy criticism from some quarters for having a tattoo of a gun on his leg, while he drew further flak after it was revealed he arrived late for the team's training camp.
However, after receiving the support of the Football Association as well as team-mates Fernandinho, Kyle Walker and Danilo, Sterling got the nod from Southgate when he was named in the England boss' first XI at Wembley and produced a lively display, although it was somewhat tainted by a yellow card for diving.