A former Premier League manager has become the latest high-profile football figure to fall victim to a spate of 'away-day' burglaries that have plagued the north-west of England. The incident, which occurred while the manager was away, saw armed intruders break into his home and steal valuables. This follows a pattern where criminals target footballers' homes during matches, exploiting their known absence.
The phenomenon, dubbed 'away-day' thefts, has seen over 20 Premier League stars in the north-west burgled in just over three years. In a recent case, Everton defender Phil Jagielka was confronted by three masked men at his home while injured, forcing him to open his safe before they fled with cash, jewellery, and watches. The rise in such crimes has led to concerns among players and managers, with Everton boss David Moyes calling for police action.
Notable past incidents include a 2001 burglary at the home of Duncan Ferguson, then an Everton striker, who physically subdued an intruder. In 2006, a gang led by James Birch targeted Liverpool players including Jerzy Dudek, Peter Crouch, and Daniel Agger, stealing medals, cars, and other high-value items. Birch was jailed in December 2006, but the broader issue persists.
Bookmakers Paddy Power briefly offered odds on which Liverpool star would be burgled next before withdrawing the promotion. Police have described the idea of a single organised gang as an oversimplification, but the lack of convictions has left footballers increasingly fearful. The latest raid on the former manager's home underscores the ongoing threat to football's elite.
