World Cup 2022: England's Raheem Sterling left Qatar after breaking into London

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Raheem Sterling has left Qatar and was absent against Senegal

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KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP

England's convincing round of 16 win over Senegal was without one who has been an integral part of the starting XI for years: Raheem Sterling.

Shortly before the game, the English association announced that the Chelsea professional was missing for family reasons.

Apparently he flew to his family in Great Britain after suspected armed burglars broke into Sterling's house on Saturday night.

This is reported by the tabloid "Sun", the BBC and the "Guardian", among others.

England captain Harry Kane commented on the absence of his team-mate after the win against Senegal: "I'm sure Raheem will speak to the manager and make the best decision for him and his family.

That's the most important.

We send him our best wishes and hope to see him as soon as possible.«

support from the coach

Coach Gareth Southgate wants to give Sterling "as much time as necessary" to deal with the case.

It is uncertain whether Sterling will return to Qatar, as Southgate told ITV: 'I really don't know because at the moment it's a situation he's dealing with with his family.

I don't want to put any pressure on him.

Sometimes football isn't the most important thing and family has to come first.«

Sterling had started the first two group games of the 1966 world champions against Iran (6-2) and the USA (0-0).

For the third game against Wales (3-0) Phil Foden took his place, who was also in the starting line-up against Senegal.

The absence of the 27-year-old didn't have any negative effects, at least against Senegal. Even without Sterling, England played variable and didn't give the African champions a chance.

The Three Lions will play the next game on Saturday (8 p.m.) against world champions France.

Then it's about getting into the World Cup semi-finals.

kyo