ENGLAND AND CHELSEA star Raheem Sterling was absent from England's 3-0 win over Senegal because his home in England was subject to a burglary by armed thugs. Sterling's family were in the home at the time.
According to reports in the UK, Sterling was given permission to fly home on Saturday evening by England bosses.
Sterling was understandably shaken by the news and decided to leave the tournament in Qatar so that he could be with his family.
The Chelsea forward could still yet return to the Three Lions camp, but that has not been decided yet.
England manager Gareth Southgate told the media yesterday in the press conference at Al Bayt Stadium that the Chelsea's man wellbeing was more important than the group
"We've got to wait and see" whether Sterling features again at the World Cup, with his only focus giving the Chelsea forward the time and support he needs," said the England boss
"Raheem, as the FA statement says, is having to deal with a family situation, so he's going back to England."
"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're going to give him that space.
🚨 Raheem Sterling house in Surrey robbed by armed intruders last night. Family were in. Once alerted 27yo wanted to get home. May return to #FIFAWorldCup if right. Shaken & concerned for well-being of children. Commitment to #ENG unwavering @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/JSJal2ARcI
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) December 4, 2022
"It didn't impact team selection. I spent a lot of time with Raheem this morning, but you know you have days where events happen and you have to deal with them.
"He's on his way home and, yeah, we're obviously mindful of him being allowed space and (having) privacy respected, so we don't want to talk in too much detail.
"Of course it's not ideal for the group ahead of a big game but it pales into insignificance - the individual is more important than the group in those moments.
"So, I needed to look after the situation and then I had to pass it on to others to deal with this afternoon in order to get him home."
England last night went onto defeat a tricky Senegal side 3-0.
Goals from Harry Kane, Buyako Saka, and Jordan Henderson capped off an impressive display for England.
The Three Lions will now play a mouthwatering tie against World Champions France on Saturday.
The game starts at 7pm.
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