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Chris Smalling: Roma defender victim of armed robbery while at home with family

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; Marcus Rashford tweeted Smalling his support

AP
Image: Chris Smalling was held at gunpoint during a robbery at his home on Friday, according to reports in Italy

Chris Smalling and his family were robbed at gunpoint in the early hours of Friday morning as armed men entered his home just outside Rome and stole watches, jewellery and cash.

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.

PA - Chris Smalling
Image: Smalling completed a permanent move to Roma in October 2020

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.

The police are now examining video surveillance cameras to shed light on what happened.

Smalling and Roma have not commented but former Manchester United team-mate 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 the semi-finals of the Europa League after the Serie A side drew 1-1 with Ajax on Thursday to progress 3-2 on aggregate.

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.

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