Raheem Sterling has confirmed that he will return to Qatar to join the England squad ahead of the World Cup quarter-final match against France this weekend.
The 27-year-old left Doha prior to the team’s triumphant win over Senegal following reports of a break-in at his home in Surrey.
“Raheem Sterling will return to England’s World Cup base in Qatar,” an FA statement on Thursday read. “The Chelsea forward temporarily left to attend to a family matter but is now expected to re-join the squad in Al Wakrah on Friday ahead of the quarter-final with France.” According to report by The Guardian, it is understood that the winger left the tournament to prioritise his family’s safety, including his three young children, in what the FA described as a “family matter”.
The Chelsea attacker’s representative had stated that his family were at home on Saturday when the home was burgled; jewellery and watches were among some of the items stolen. “Officers are carrying out enquiries into the circumstances and the investigation remains ongoing,” the rep added.
Sterling, who made more than 330 appearances for Manchester City during his time at the Etihad Stadium, scored in England’s World Cup opener against Iran, but was dropped to the bench by Gareth Southgate for the final group stage match against Wales, which the Three Lions won 3-0.
England will face France in the quarter finals on December 11.
