Why Raheem Sterling left England World Cup camp after Senegal win amid armed robbery

 

Raheem Sterling missed England’s last-16 match against Senegal because armed robbers targeted his home the night before the game. The 27-year- old was absent from Gareth Southgate’s squad as the Three Lions secured their passage into the last eight with a 3-0 victory. The Chelsea star had played in the first two group games, scoring against Iran, before being replaced by Phil Foden in the last match against Wales.

He played no part of the win over the African champions though due to a ‘family issue’ which has later been revealed to be a break-in at his home. Southgate explained after the match that he would be going home to deal with the situation, saying:

“The priority for him is to be with his family. We’re going to support that and leave him to have as much time as he needs. He’s going home. I don’t want to put him under pressure. Sometimes football isn’t the most important thing, family should come first.”

The manager also added that he wasn’t sure if his winger would return to Qatar for the rest of the tournament. It comes after reports that his house was broken into by armed robbers the night before England played. England play world champions France next Saturday and Sterling could yet be involved, but he wants to ensure his family and children are safe, the Telegraph write.

Sterling’s Chelsea teammate Reece James was also subject to a break in earlier this year whilst away from home. James had a safe with his winners medals stolen from his house.