The home of Newcastle midfielder Joelinton was burgled while he and his family watched the team’s 3-2 defeat by Manchester City at St James’ Park.
The Brazilian received an alert on his phone and immediately informed police that three men were in his Darras Hall home. The property was empty at the time.
Officers responded and a police helicopter was dispatched but the intruders had fled the scene.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: 'Shortly before 7.30pm yesterday (Saturday) police received a call from a concerned homeowner who reported that three men were inside their home on Runnymede Road in Darras Hall.
'Thankfully the homeowner was not home but had received a security alert on their phone and immediately reported concerns to police.
'Police were deployed to the scene however, those alleged to be involved had fled the scene.
'Enquires remain ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact us via 101, or the ‘Report’ pages of our website, quoting log NP-20240113-0835.'