It’s unclear if Sterling will return to Qatar
Raheem Sterling has left the World Cup to be with his family after a break-in at his home.
Sterling was expected to be involved in England’s last-16 meeting with Senegal on Sunday evening, but it was confirmed before kick-off that the Chelsea forward was not available for selection due to a family matter.
Reports have since said that armed intruders forced their way into Sterling’s home on Saturday night while some members of his family were in the property.
The forward was eager to return home to be with his family after being informed.
Raheem Sterling was the victim of a robbery at his home in London while in Qatar. He has decided to return to UK to check on the well being of his family but hopes to return to Qatar if the circumstances are right
— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) December 4, 2022
Asked on ITV about whether Sterling would feature again during the tournament, England manager Gareth Southgate said:
“We’ll have to wait and see. At the moment, the priority is for him to be with his family. We’re going to support that and we’re going to leave him to have as much time as he needs.”
Southgate confirmed Sterling was returning home, adding:
“I really don’t know because at the moment it’s a situation where he needs time with his family and I don’t want to put him under any pressure. Sometimes football isn’t the most important thing and family should come first.”
Related links:
- The full player ratings as England beat Senegal to set up quarter final against France
- The problem with Jordan Henderson and England’s midfield
- World Cup 2022 Day 15: All the major action and talking points
