England they recovered most of the practice equipment stolen before the team arrived World Cup base in Kansas Cityallaying concerns about preparations for their first game of the tournament.
Equipment was reported missing after vehicles transporting supplies to England’s training camp at Swope Soccer Village were broken into before the team’s arrival in Missouri.
Police launched an investigation on Friday night after discovering several items, including exercise equipment, had been taken.
The incident happened while Thomas Tuchel’s team was preparing for the first match of the group stage against Croatia.
The police make an arrest
Sources confirmed that most of the stolen equipment has now been recovered. It is also known that two people have been arrested in connection with this case.
Before the recovery, a Kansas City police spokesman said, “We are investigating the possible theft of equipment from a squad vehicle that arrived in Kansas City with the missing items tonight. The investigation is ongoing.”
Officers remained in contact with the Football Association during the investigation.
The theft initially raised concerns about possible disruption to England’s training schedule, with the team due to arrive in Kansas City on Saturday afternoon before final preparations for the tournament opener begin.
Personalized equipment among the stolen items
Former England defender Phil Jagielka explained why the loss of some items could be significant for the players.
“We have many pairs of boots during the season, but for the tournament they will personalize them a lot,” Jagielka told BBC Sport.
“Many of them can have their own special inserts. Then you can choose whether you want to have a flag, your initials, your children’s names, nicknames… It would all be done months in advance.”
Despite the setback, England’s preparations are expected to go ahead as planned.
Tuchel and his players are due to have their first full training session on Sunday as they prepare for Wednesday’s clash with Croatia.
