Raheem Sterling was forced to miss England’s 3-0 demolition job of Senegal after his London home was broken into by burglars, according to reports.
The Chelsea winger rushed back to the capital from England’s Qatar camp after being notified of the alleged smash-and-grab raid, The Sun reported on Sunday.
Gareth Southgate confirmed that Sterling was on his way back home and couldn’t say if he would return to the England camp.
A spokesperson for the FA confirmed Sterling would not play in the game just moments before kick off.
The statement read: “Raheem Sterling is not available for selection for the #ThreeLions tonight as he is dealing with a family matter.”
The shock announcement came just hours before the Three Lions were due to kick off against the African Cup of Nations champs.
Victorious England Manager Gareth Southgate said: “He’s going home. I really don’t know if he returns. I don’t want to put any more pressure on him.
“Sometimes football isn’t the most important thing and you have to put family first.”
Sterling is expected to return to Qatar as England head into a quarter final clash with France next Saturday.
He missed free-scoring England extend their unbeaten record against African teams with a 3-0 victory over Senegal which included a first goal at this World Cup from captain Harry Kane as they set up a quarter-final clash with holders France.
