Roma defender Chris Smalling and his family were subjected to a robbery at gunpoint on Friday, according to reports in Italy; the three perpetrators are understood to have entered via the bedroom window; Smalling posted on Saturday: "My family although very shaken up are luckily unharmed!"
Saturday 17 April 2021 10:18, UK
Roma defender Chris Smalling has posted a message of thanks to those who offered support to his family following an armed robbery at their home in Italy on Friday morning.
According to reports, three armed men broke into the former Manchester United player's home in the south of Rome and confronted Smalling, who was forced to hand over jewellery and other items.
Smalling said no one was physically harmed in the incident, but his family were left in shock.
"I'd like to thank everyone for your well wishes and support!" Smalling wrote on Twitter. "My family although very shaken up are luckily unharmed!
"Hoping these people can find a more meaningful way to live their lives without causing such harm and distress to others."
Former United and England team-mate Marcus Rashford was among those to post messages of support on Friday.
He wrote on Twitter: "Thinking about you @ChrisSmalling and your lovely family. So sorry to wake up to the news this morning. Can't imagine how you're feeling but I hope you're ok".
Smalling, capped 31 times by England, joined Roma on loan in 2019 before completing a permanent move to the Serie A club in October last year.
He has dealt with several injury issues this season, and has not featured since March 7 due to a thigh problem.
The Roma defender missed his side's Europa League quarter-final tie against Ajax on Thursday as he was recovering from knee discomfort.
According to Italian news agency Ansa, three men entered the home in the Appia area just outside of the capital after removing a grating from the window of the player's bedroom.
They then forced him to open the safe at gunpoint, taking away three Rolex watches, jewellery, and around 300 euros in cash.
Smalling's family members were also present during the robbery, with his wife calling the police at around 5am.
Roma coach Paulo Fonseca's house was broken into last November when he and his family were out. Watches and other valuables were taken.
Lazio forward Joaquin Correa's house in Rome was also burgled a few days earlier.
