England’s players have been forced to increase the security at their homes and around their family members after Raheem Sterling ’s house was robbed during the World Cup.
Sterling has flown home from Qatar to be with his family because he is concerned about the welfare of his children following the break-in at his Surrey home on Saturday. Gareth Southgate said after England’s 3-0 win over Senegal that he is unsure whether the 27-year-old will return in time to feature in Saturday’s quarter-final against France.
Surrey Police confirmed on Monday that they are investigating a burglary where jewellery and watches were stolen. England’s players were informed of the situation at a team meeting before leaving their Al Wakrah base for the match at the Al Bayt Stadium on Sunday – and they have now taken measures to avoid something similar happening to them.
The Telegraph reports that the incident caused shock among the camp and that Sterling’s team-mates have now increased security at their homes and around their families. Agents of players have been instructed to put security teams on 24-hour patrols, intercept attempted deliveries and monitor any unusual or suspicious activity.
Surrey Police’s statement said: “Police were contacted just before 9pm on Saturday December 3rd after the occupants of the property came home and discovered a number of items including jewellery and watches had been stolen.
“Inquiries to establish the circumstances are under way and the investigation is ongoing. No threat of violence was involved as the items were discovered stolen retrospectively. Inquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.”
There is increased paranoia and concern among players about security, with many homes empty due to family and friends being out in Qatar with the players. After the conclusion of many matches, England’s stars have been seen climbing into the stands to celebrate with their entourages.
Robberies against footballers have become increasingly common. In March, Manchester United star Paul Pogba’s home was burgled while he was busy playing for the club and his two children were sleeping inside the property.
Pogba’s United teammate Victor Lindelof was also the victim of a burglary in January, with thieves targeting the defender’s home while he was playing for United against Brentford.
Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo suffered facial injuries during a violent break-in in December. Reports at the time said players were hiring former special forces soldiers to guard their homes while away with work.
Southgate said after the Senegal win that Sterling would be granted as much time as he needs with his family. “I really don’t know [when he might return] because at the moment it’s a situation that he needs time with his family to deal with and I don’t want to put him under any pressure,” he said.
"Sometimes football isn’t the most important thing and family should come first."
