Chris Smalling and family ‘held at gunpoint during home robbery’

Roma defender Chris Smalling and his family have been held up at gunpoint inside their home in the Italian capital, according to local media reports.

Smalling, who joined the Italian side permanently from Manchester United last summer, and his family were subjected to the ordeal 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, 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 [Chris Smalling] 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 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.

Additional reporting by Associated Press.

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