England star Raheem Sterling publicly declares his faith in God as he is baptised in tank of water

FOOTIE star Raheem Sterling was baptised in a tank of water as he publicly declared his faith in God — and “cleansed” himself of past sins.

The England forward, 29, was filmed taking the plunge dressed in a white gown, with a congregation singing gospel songs.

Footballer Raheem Sterling has been baptised after declaring his faith in God

The ceremony for the England footballer took place at a church in London

Raheem Sterling has a new start in his career as well, recently joining ArsenalGetty

The Jamaica-born forward, on loan at Arsenal from Chelsea, was fully immersed by two church elders at last weekend’s ceremony at a London Caribbean Baptist church.

A source close to the star said: “Raheem said a few words which were incredibly powerful and moving.

He understood this was a public declaration of his faith and an opportunity to cleanse himself of any ego, or bad habits of the past.”

Sterling is preparing to make his debut for new side Arsenal today in the North London derby with Tottenham.

The winger joined Mikel Arteta‘s side on deadline day after Chelsea made clear they were looking to move him on.

A loan deal had to be struck, with Chelsea still paying a large percentage of Sterling’s wages.

Arsenal are pushing to make up ground on league leaders Manchester City.

And with key stars Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard out of action due to suspension and injury, the stage is set for new signing Sterling to step up.

Raheem Sterling has been training with new side Arsenal ahead of his potential debutGetty