A man was jailed for two-and-a-half years today for handling a haul of goods stolen from Premiership footballer Lucas Leiva (right).

Raiders took more than 150 items from the 22-year-old’s home in Woolton, Merseyside, while he was playing for Liverpool at Anfield on November 4 last year.

The haul included football shirts from his debut, a bronze Olympic medal and boots embossed with his name, along with computers, electrical equipment and a collection of jewellery and handbags belonging to Leiva’s girlfriend.

Unemployed Steven Jones, 21, was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court today after admitting his part in the burglary.

Jones, who has extensive form for offences of dishonesty, admitted handling stolen goods and driving while disqualified.

Geoff Fryar, prosecuting, said: "The complainant in this case is the Liverpool footballer Lucas Leiva.

"His premises were burgled while he, his partner and friends were away from the property.

"The complainant was playing at Anfield and his partner was watching him.

"His partner returned home first and found the premises had been burgled.

"A ladder was used to get into the house through the bathroom.

"An untidy search was made and a large quantity of property was stolen.

"In excess of 150 sports items and valuable pieces of jewellery and three computers were taken.