Raheem Sterling will return to England from his World Cup squad in Qatar after armed intruders broke into his home on Saturday.
His family is believed to have been at home at the time of the incident in Surrey.
Sterling was understandably devastated by the news and decided to leave the game in Qatar so he could be with his family.
Sources close to the player say Sterling’s unwavering commitment to England has not changed and only the well-being of his family will allow him to leave the Championship at such a critical time.
The 27-year-old could still decide to return to Qatar if the circumstances were right.
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England said shortly before their round of 16 tie against Senegal, which they won 3-0, that Sterling could not be included due to “family issues”.
Southgate confirmed Sterling will return to England following Saturday’s quarter-final victory against France.
He said: “At the moment, his priority is obviously to be with his family.
“We will support that and make sure he has enough time to meet his needs.”
Asked if Sterling could eventually return to the team in Qatar, he added: “I don’t really know.
“At the moment he needs time with his family and I don’t want to put any pressure on him.
“Sometimes football is not the most important thing, family should come first.”
Captain Harry Kane, who scored the second goal in the win, added: “Our thoughts are with him and his family. We will have to take it day by day.
“We send him the best and hope to see him soon.”
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(Photo: Getty Images)