A PREMIER League star was attacked by masked thugs with machetes in his own home, then tied up along with his terrified partner.
The player — who we are not naming — was dragged around the house by the balaclava-clad raiders who smashed their way into his £1.5million property.
The gang broke into the secluded mansion during the recent international fixture period believing he had travelled abroad. But the player had been released from the squad.
As he was watching his team-mates on TV, four men smashed their way in through a glass door.
His partner was taking a bath at the time.
Both were grabbed and tied up and the home was ransacked.
A source said: “It’s everyone’s worst nightmare. He was pretty brave and did his best, but he was outnumbered and they were pretty aggressive.”
The raiders made off with watches, jewellery and electrical items.
The robbery has sent shock waves through his club and left officials deeply upset.
The source added: “The player lives a pretty low-profile life off the pitch, so he was shocked to be targeted. He doesn’t flash his wealth and enjoys being as normal as possible.”
Police said: “Entry was forced to the property and jewellery, along with other household items, were stolen. Inquiries are ongoing.”
Footballers are being targeted by burglary gangs dubbed “away day robbers”, as they raid their homes when they are playing matches.
But larger squads and complicated fixture lists have seen some stars’ properties burgled when they are at home.
In March, The Sun told how then Everton FC goalkeeper Robin Olsen and his terrified family were confronted by a balaclava-clad gang wielding machetes in Hale, Cheshire.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
