• Sturridge had asked for Lucci’s return after LA break-in • Former Liverpool striker posts video thanking public

This article is more than 1 year old

This article is more than 1 year old

Daniel Sturridge has been reunited with his stolen dog, two days after an emotional appeal from the former Liverpool striker on social media.

The 29-year-old, without a club after being released by the Champions League winners this summer, posted a video on Instagram on Tuesday showing a broken glass door, which he said was where thieves broke in and took his dog as well as a number of bags from his Los Angeles home.

Daniel Sturridge pleads for return of stolen dog in emotional video Read more

The Pomeranian was returned to him after tweets from an account called “KILLAFLAME” circulated on social media with pictures of the dog, Lucci.

A delighted Sturridge later posted a video saying: “I can’t believe it. I just want to say a big thank you to everyone on social media who supported us and raised awareness. I’m so thankful.”

His LA home was reportedly broken into on Monday night and a visibly disturbed Sturridge posted CCTV footage of a group of men in black hoodies outside the property in West Hollywood along with a heartfelt plea to find Lucci, who also has his own Instagram account.

The former England player, who often posts picture of Lucci on social media, offered up to £30,000 for the dog’s return.