THIEVES smashed into a Premier League footballer's Salford home but fled empty handed after being confronted by his wife.

Thugs launched a brick through the patio window of Blackburn star Zurab Khizanishvilli, 27, as he played for his team at Sunderland.

But the Georgian international's wife, who was in the Worsley house with the couple's children, disturbed them and they ran off.

The incident is the latest where a footballer's house has been targeted while he is playing in a match,

Other victims include United star Cristiano Ronaldo and Liverpool players Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "The offenders threw a brick at the back door, smashing the glass, but were disturbed by the occupant who was in the house with her children.

"The offenders then fled. No-one was injured and inquiries are continuing."