England forward Raheem Sterling is in line to be part of the Three Lions squad to take on France after flying back to Qatar following a break-in at his family home in the UK.
The Chelsea winger, who top scored for England at Euro2020, started both of the first two group games before being left on the bench for the 3-0 win over Iran. Ahead of the Round of 16 tie with Senegal, he flew home to deal with a personal matter, with his family home having been subject to a break in during his absence.
A police report of the incident explained: “We are currently investigating a report of a burglary at an address in Oxshott, Leatherhead. On Saturday, 3 December, the occupants returned to the address after arriving home from an international trip.
“They contacted police just before 9pm to report a number of items of jewellery, including watches, had been stolen. Officers attended the address later that night and returned to speak to the occupants this morning. At this time it remains unclear on which date the property was stolen and establishing this forms a key part of our investigation.
An FA spokesperson confirmed that Sterling had returned from the England camp in order “prioritise the wellbeing” of his family, which includes three young children.
Orlando, Florida, USA, July 23, 2022, Chelsea Midfielder Raheem Sterling #17 warming up at Camping World Stadium in a Friendly Match. (Photo Credit: Marty Jean-Louis) 2JJ9MGF Orlando, Florida, USA, July 23, 2022, Chelsea Midfielder Raheem Sterling #17 warming up at Camping World Stadium in a Friendly Match. (Photo Credit: Marty Jean-Louis) (Alamy Stock Photo)
However, Sterling has since begun his return to the England camp, with the FA confirming that the 28-year-old will be back in time for Friday’s training session ahead of the quarter-final showdown with France.