England ‘hit by’ World Cup kit theft, Bellingham and Kane boots feared lost | OneFootball

England have suffered a damaging setback to their World Cup preparations after a shipment of equipment was stolen in transit to their Kansas City base, Daily Mail reports. The incident comes days before Wednesday’s opener against Croatia.

The load was being driven from West Palm Beach, Florida, to Swope Soccer Village in Missouri, the facility assigned by FIFA. Staff opened the transport on arrival and found the van had been almost emptied in transit. Early checks suggested only one ball remained from the consignment.

There is concern that the personalised boots of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham may have been among the items lost. Official tournament balls were also missing, along with tactical boards, massage tables and the video analysts’ technology.

An urgent investigation has been opened to trace and recover the stolen kit. Within the delegation there are suspicions that members of the transport operation could have been involved.

The FA has so far declined to comment. The episode threatens to complicate England’s final preparations before their group opener.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo