Raheem Sterling flying back to Qatar for England v France
England winger Raheem Sterling is to return to Qatar before Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against France.
Sterling’s spokesperson said he left the England camp to “prioritise the wellbeing” of his three young children.
He missed England’s 3-0 win over Senegal in the last 16, but is expected to rejoin the squad in Al Wakrah on Friday, 9 December.
Sterling, who has 81 international caps, scored for England in a 6-2 win against Iran in their opening game at the World Cup.
He also started the goalless draw against the United States before being an unused substitute in the 3-0 win against Wales that saw England qualify for the knockout stages as group winners.
His representative had said Sterling’s family was at home on Saturday when there were “armed intruders”. The former Liverpool and Manchester City forward was said to be “shaken” and concerned for the wellbeing of his children.
No arrests have been made yet in relation to the break-in at Sterling’s home.
The Football Association is yet to reveal exactly what it was told about the incident before Sterling’s departure.
Source: BBC Sports
