England forward Raheem Sterling is leaving the World Cup in Qatar after his Surrey house was the target of an armed robbery Saturday evening, ESPN reports.
Sterling was ruled out before Sunday’s Round of 16 win against Senegal due to a “family matter,” the team said. England coach Gareth Southgate did not offer any indication if or when the forward would be able to return.
“We’ve got to give him time to try to resolve that or be there for his family. That’s the most important thing at this time. So we are going to give him that space,” said Southgate.
Added England captain Harry Kane: “Our thoughts are with him and his family. It’s a private matter, but it’s never easy to see one of your teammates and friends deal with something like that.”
According to ESPN, Sterling is hoping to play a part in the later stages of the tournament.
The 27-year-old Chelsea player has started two games at this year’s World Cup, with one goal and one assist so far.
After defeating Senegal, England’s next game is a quarterfinal matchup Saturday against France.
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