Raheem Sterling armed himself with a kitchen knife to defend his young family after masked burglars broke into his Berkshire home over the weekend, according to sources.
The former England international, 30, was at the property with his partner Paige Milian and their children on Saturday when he heard intruders upstairs.
His first priority was ensuring the safety of his sons Thiago 8, and Thai Cruz, 6, before taking action.
The Chelsea player reportedly seized a knife from a kitchen block before courageously confronting the masked gang.
An insider revealed: “He had no choice. He did what any loving father would do, looking to protect his young family.
“He needed some form of defence as he confronted multiple masked men.”
The break-in occurred between 6.30pm and 7pm, approximately an hour before Chelsea’s 8pm match against Wolves, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Police believe the criminals assumed Sterling would be at Stamford Bridge for the fixture.
Football star Raheem Sterling armed himself with a kitchen knife to defend his family
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PAThe intruders had accessed the upper floor of the property and were searching for valuables when Sterling confronted them.
A source told The Sun: “There was a group of them upstairs in masks and they were obviously looking around for any valuables yet again.”
Sterling’s brave intervention proved successful as the gang fled immediately upon realising the homeowner was present.
The burglars escaped without stealing anything from the property.
Raheem Sterling has been a key player for the Three Lions in previous years
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GETTYThis marks the third occasion in seven years that criminals have targeted the forward.
During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Sterling was forced to leave the Three Lions camp after burglars raided his Cobham home while his family were inside.
Thieves stole approximately £300,000 worth of jewellery and watches during that December incident.
The break-in occurred in Oxshott, Leatherhead, with Sterling described as “shaken” and “concerned for the wellbeing of his children”.
Raheem Sterling is currently not in the England squad | PAHis previous residence in Goostrey, Cheshire, was also targeted by thieves in 2018, although the criminals fled after triggering the home’s alarm system.
Thames Valley Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are appealing for witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity in the area to come forward.
A spokesman for Sterling said: “We can confirm that Raheem Sterling was the victim of a home break-in this weekend. We can also confirm that he and his children were present at home at the time. Whilst the ultimate violation of privacy and safety, we are thankful to be able to confirm that he and his loved ones are all safe. We ask that the privacy of Raheem and his loved ones be respected at this challenging time.”
Chelsea say they are providing support to Sterling following the incident.
