Raheem Sterling returned to England on Sunday after his home was broken into while his family was inside by armed robbers.
Before Sunday’s victory against Senegal, England midfielder Jordan Henderson paid respect to Raheem Sterling by donning the 27-year-shorts old’s after his home was broken into by armed intruders. Sterling did not make the Al Bayt Stadium matchday roster because he flew home to be with his family. However, there is a possibility that he may return to Qatar in time for Saturday’s quarterfinal match against France.
The Manchester City striker had a goal and an assist at the World Cup before to his abrupt departure from the England camp, which was disclosed 90 minutes prior to Sunday night’s match. Henderson, who scored England’s first goal against Senegal just before halftime, showed his support for Sterling by donning his teammate’s shorts after the final whistle.
Henderson was shown conversing with members of his family in the stands after the game while wearing Sterling’s No. 10-adorned shorts. When questioned by ITV Sport about Sterling’s absence, the Liverpool midfielder offered his support for Sterling, stating, “It is a setback, but I hope everything is good with Raheem’s family at home and that he can return to clear things out.
“Hopefully he’ll be able to return, but I think he’ll have to evaluate after he returns home. Our thoughts and best wishes are with him.”
It was said that Sterling’s fiancée and two children were at home during the theft, which occurred on Saturday night and resulted in the theft of about £300,000 worth of watches. In the aftermath of the incident, he flew to the United Kingdom on Sunday to spend time with his family. He may return to Qatar to play against France, but no return date has been set as of yet.
After his team’s win against Senegal, England head coach Gareth Southgate indicated that Raheem Sterling would be allowed as much time as he needs over the next several days, with no hurry placed on his return to the group.
Southgate said, “We must see what happens.” The immediate priority is for him to be with his family, and we will support that decision.
“We will provide him with as much time as he needs. Yes, he is heading home. I’m unsure since he needs time with his family to cope with the issue at the moment, and I don’t want to put him under pressure.
Occasionally, family should take precedence over football.
