Roma's Chris Smalling gives thanks for support after being robbed at gunpoint

Criminals forced former Manchester United defender to hand over watches, jewellery and cash, according to Italian media reports

Roma's Chris Smalling. Reuters

Roma defender Chris Smalling has posted a message of thanks to those who offered support to his family following an armed robbery at their home in Italy on Friday.

According to reports, three gunmen broke into the former Manchester United player's home in the south of Rome at 5am and confronted Smalling, and forced the 31-year-old to open the safe and hand over three Rolex watches, jewellery and around 300 euros ($359) in cash.

Smalling 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!" Smalling 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".

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

He has dealt with several injury issues this season, and has not featured since March 7 due to a thigh problem.