ENGLAND defeated Senegal to reach a World Cup quarter-final against France.
But the win was overshadowed by the news that Raheem Sterling had left the Three Lions camp to return to the UK after an armed burglary at his home.
GettyRaheem Sterling did not feature for England[/caption]
Why was Raheem Sterling NOT playing for England?
Raheem Sterling pulled out of England’s last-16 tie with Senegal after learning that his Surrey home was broken into on Saturday night.
Sterling was forced to fly back from the World Cup after burglars smashed into his home.
It has since emerged that his wife and children were at home during the time of the break in.
The FA had said before kick-off that Sterling was missing out to deal with a “family matter”.
The statement read: “Raheem Sterling is not available for selection for the #ThreeLions tonight as he is dealing with a family matter.”
The shock announcement came just hours before the Three Lions were due to kick off against the African Cup of Nations champs.
Sterling had started both of England’s games against Iran and USA but was then benched for the 3-0 win over Wales.
The 27-year-old has scored 21 times in 80 caps in total.
England boss Gareth Southgate says Sterling intends to return for the France quarter-final on Saturday night, but football has rightly taken a backseat currently.
Southgate said: “I really don’t know, it’s a situation he needs time to deal with, I don’t want to put any pressure on him.”
“Sometimes football isn’t the most important thing and family should come first.”
APRaheem Sterling has 80 caps for England[/caption]
World Cup 2022
Everything you need to know about the World Cup
World Cup 2022 LIVE: Latest news and updates from Qatar
World Cup schedule: What are the kick-off times for ALL matches?
World Cup prize money – how much does the winner earn?
Who are the ITV pundits and commentators?
Who are the BBC pundits and commentators?
Meet England’s World Cup wags, who are staying on a £1bn cruise ship