AS Roma defender Chris Smalling (Photo | AP) 
Football

AS Roma defender Chris Smalling, family held at gunpoint in burglary

Chris Smalling and his family were held up at gunpoint inside their home in the Italian capital in the early hours of Friday morning.

Associated Press

ROME: Roma defender Chris Smalling and his family were held up at gunpoint inside their home in the Italian capital in the early hours of Friday morning.

Italian media reports that the family were sleeping when armed and hooded men broke into their home and forced the footballer to open a safe.

The robbers took Rolex watches, jewelry and other valuables.

Smalling and Roma have not commented but former Manchester United teammate Marcus Rashford tweeted his support.

Rashford wrote: "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."

Roma and United will face each other in a Europa League semifinal.

Roma drew 1-1 with Ajax on Thursday to progress 3-2 on aggregate.

Smalling was not involved in that match because of a knee problem.

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 Joaquín Correa's house in Rome was also burgled a few days earlier.

'Witnessing betrayal of Indian farmers': Rahul Gandhi sharpens attack on Centre over US trade deal

Don't turn AI-Mela into a jhamela: How India can go beyond PR at its AI Summit

India vs Pakistan: Heightened security, buzzing fans bring Colombo to a standstill

Indian student found dead in California, six days after going missing

Debate, vote on motion to remove LS Speaker Om Birla to be taken up on March 9: Rijiju

SCROLL FOR NEXT