Premier League stars hiring former SAS soldiers to protect family homes

Premier League players are reportedly hiring former SAS soldiers in a bid to try and halt the recent spate of violent break-ins which is sweeping the league.

Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof became the latest victim of brazen criminal gangs in the north west last week.

Lindelof was away with United playing against Brentford when his house in Manchester was broken into while his wife and two young children were still inside.

The incident came after thieves broke into the home of Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo in December, attacking him in front of his family before fleeing with jewellery.

According to the Daily Mail, these attacks are becoming so common that Premier League players in the area have stepped up their personal security.

This has involved turning to private security firms, many of whom use former SAS soldiers to protect family homes.

It has gotten so bad recently that clubs in the north west of England have set up a discussion group to share information on the best ways to combat the criminals.

Players are buying specially-trained guard dogs, while the ex-special forces soldiers are being employed to patrol problem areas as well as sit inside homes while the players are away with work.

Both Manchester clubs have spoken to their players about the growing problem recently, while Everton, Liverpool and Burnley are all part of the ongoing discussion.

Some clubs are so concerned that they have deliberately stopped sharing with the media specific information about players' movements on away trips.

The move is understandable when you consider the testimony of the recent victims.

Lindelof's wife, Maja, was alone with their three-year-old boy Ted Louie and baby Francis last Wednesday when thieves broke into the couple's home.

"I was home alone with both kids but we managed to hide and lock ourselves in a room before they entered our house," she explained on Instagram.

"We are OK under the circumstances but it was obviously a very traumatic and scary moment for both and my little kids.

"We are now in Sweden and are spending some time off with our families."

In December, Man City defender Cancelo suffered facial injuries after trying to fight off four attackers inside his home.

"Unfortunately today I was assaulted by four cowards who hurt me and tried to hurt my family. When you show resistance this is what happens," Cancelo posted on social media.

"I don't know how there are people with such meanness. The most important thing for me is my family and luckily they are all OK.

"After so many obstacles in my life this is just one more that I will overcome. Firm and strong, like always."

Former Everton goalkeeper Robin Olsen was also targeted last year by criminals wielding machetes at his home near Altrincham.