England’s Raheem Sterling leaves World Cup after intruders break into family home
By CNN Sport staff
England soccer star Raheem Sterling is returning home from the World Cup in Qatar after intruders broke into his family home.
Surrey Police told CNN on Monday that it is investigating a report of a burglary at an address in Oxshott, Leatherhead after the occupants returned home from an international trip.
They contacted police just before 9pm on Saturday to report that a number of items of jewelery, including watches, had been stolen.
“Officers attended the address later that night and returned to speak to the occupants this morning,” said a police statement.
“At this time it remains unclear on which date the property was stolen and establishing this forms a key part of our investigation.
“Enquiries into the full circumstances remain ongoing and officers will look at all available evidence including any CCTV opportunities.”
Earlier on Monday, a person with knowledge of the situation told CNN, conflictingly, that armed intruders broke into Sterling’s home while his family were inside.
But in its statement, Surrey Police said: “We are aware of media reports stating there were armed suspects involved, however, at this time, we would reassure our communities that no witnesses have come forward to this effect and there are no reports of any threats of violence linked to this incident.”
The incident happened on Saturday evening, the individual with knowledge of the matter said, and Sterling is said to be “shaken” and “concerned” about the well-being of his children after the break-in.
There would be an opportunity for Sterling to return to Qatar if the circumstances are right, the individual said, but added that he’s “now he’s focusing on being at home and supporting his family” and that there would be no further details provided over the coming days.
England faces France in the World Cup quarterfinals on Saturday.
On Sunday, Sterling was absent from England’s 3-0 victory over Senegal with England manager Gareth Southgate later saying the 27-year-old was dealing with a “family matter.”
“I spent a lot of time with Raheem this morning,” Southgate told reporters on Sunday.
“Of course, it’s not ideal for the group ahead of a big game,” he added, “but it pales into insignificance, the individual is more important than the group in those moments.”
CNN has contacted England’s Football Association for comment.
The Chelsea forward played in England’s first two games in the group stages of the World Cup and scored in the team’s 6-2 victory against Iran.
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