England training equipment stolen ahead of World Cup opener

England have suffered a setback ahead of their World Cup opener against Croatia after some of the team’s training equipment was reportedly stolen in Kansas City.

The Football Association is working to determine the extent of the theft after vehicles transporting equipment to England’s training base at Swope Soccer Village were broken into.

Training balls and boots are among the items feared to have been stolen.

England manager Thomas Tuchel and his squad were due to arrive in Kansas City on Saturday afternoon, with the equipment expected to be in place before their arrival.

Police officers were at the scene on Friday night and have since launched an investigation into the incident.

Kansas City police confirmed that a probe is underway and said two arrests had been made in connection with the suspected theft.

“We are investigating a possible theft of equipment from a team vehicle that arrived in Kansas City with items missing this evening. The investigation is ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.

The incident could disrupt Tuchel’s preparations as England gear up for their opening World Cup match against Croatia on Wednesday.

The players are scheduled to hold their first full training session on Sunday.