Bukayo Saka has revealed Raheem Sterling’s final message to the England squad before heading home.
While the 27-year-old was in Qatar, his family home in Surrey was ransacked. On this occasion, his fiancee, Paige Milian, and the two children, who were inside, were horrified, while watches and jewelry worth 300,000 pounds (350,000 euros) were stolen.
Ahead of the round of 16 match against Senegal, it was confirmed that Sterling would not be available for selection as he has returned home to be with his family.
However, before leaving his teammates, the Chelsea player has a message, which was made public by the Arsenal winger, Saka.
When asked about his team-mate, Bukayo said: “He wished us the best yesterday (against Senegal) as he was leaving and I’ve written to him in the hope that he’ll get back to me later – I just hope he and his family him to be well”.
The Three Lions did Sterling proud by beating Senegal 3-0 and will play France in the quarter-finals.
Regarding the absence of the winger, coach Gareth Southgate stated: “We have to wait and see. For now, the family is a priority for him, we will support this and give him as much time as he needs… Sometimes football is not the most important thing and the family must come first”.