Chris Smalling family 'shocked' after star forced to hand over valuables in armed robbery

Former Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has said his family were left shocked after an armed robbery at their home in Italy.

The Roma star posted a message of thanks to those who offered support following the incident on Friday morning.

According to reports, three armed men broke into his home in the south of Rome and confronted Smalling, who was forced to hand over jewellery and other items.

The footballer 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!" he 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."

Capped 31 times by England, Smalling joined Roma on loan in 2019 before completing a permanent move to the Serie A club in October last year.