Former Liverpool and Manchester City winger Sterling has not enjoyed his best spell at Feyenoord after making the switch in January in what has been a failed move for the England international.
The 31-year-old has provided a single goal contribution for the Dutch side after very limited minutes under Van Persie who has witnessed the winger be booed and ridiculed in recent months.
Sterling was handed a rare start by Van Persie on the final day of the season over the weekend, playing over 70 minutes. Van Persie was keen to defend him after featuring for the side, backing him as fans turn their back on him.
"He was unlucky at times. But there were also a number of times where he was in a good position. In the second half, for example, when he produced a good run inside.
“Personally, I struggle with the cynicism surrounding him. I think respect is more appropriate. In any case, I don't like cynicism. I can't stand the whole atmosphere around him.
"He has scored 200 goals in England and played 82 international matches. And that is regardless of whether you think he plays well or not. But I think the way we handle this as a footballing nation is really very bad."
Feyenoord won their final game of the season as they confirmed a second-place finish in the league. Sterling is unlikely to stay with the side as he departs this summer, on the hunt for a new club in the twilight of a career that’s come crumbling down.
Sterling declined to speak to the media following the win over Zwolle after what has been a tough time away from England.