The rising number of violent burglaries targeting Premier League footballers has sparked a new kind of security system.
Across England, players are now turning to muscle and experience from the fighting world. In the past, they used to rely on high-tech alarms and private patrols.
Over the past few seasons, several players have fallen victim to organised break-ins.
Among those affected were Jack Grealish and Raheem Sterling, whose homes in Cheshire were targeted by criminal gangs.
Now, some top-flight stars are stepping up their protection in a bold and unconventional way.
According to a security consultant speaking to The Mail, “I can tell you that one massive club with several players in the Cheshire area has boosted security.
“They have now drafted in a couple of former MMA fighters to bodyguard the players and their families.
“One of the lads does the close protection work while the other is a house sitter. That means he stay in the house when the player is away with the club.
“The gangs tend to pull the big jobs when the players are away in Europe. Both the former MMA fighters are very confident when it comes to physical confrontations and would not back off if something happened.”
The consultant also added, “They look after the players and their families when they are out on the street when things can happen.
“If a young players wants to go to nightclub they will take them and make sure nothing happens.
“These lads have fought at the highest levels and are highly capable.”
Discussing the criminal mindset, he explained, “So the gangs from Manchester and Liverpool view Prestbury and Knutsford as a kind of Disney Land with endless opportunities.”
As break-ins continue to rise, more Premier League footballers are expected to follow suit. And they may employ MMA-trained personnel to safeguard their homes and loved ones.
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