Chris Smalling and family held at gunpoint in home burglary

Italian media report that the family were sleeping when armed and hooded men broke into their home

Roma centre-back Chris Smalling (Getty Images)

Roma defender Chris Smalling and his family were held at gunpoint inside their home in Rome in the early hours of Friday morning.

Italian media report 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, jewellery and other valuables.

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 Europa League semi-finals next month after 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, and watches and other valuables were taken.

Lazio forward Joaquin Correa’s house in Rome was also burgled a few days earlier.

AP