Jude Bellingham reportedly faces the threat of missing England’s Euro 2024 quarter-final with Switzerland due to his “inside joke” goal celebration.
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- Midfielder scored stunning goal vs Slovakia
- Antics after that have sparked debate
- Three Lions preparing for quarter-final clash
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Real Madrid superstar stepped up when the Three Lions needed him most during their dramatic last-16 encounter with Slovakia. Deep into stoppage-time, Bellingham produced a stunning overhead kick that sent the tie into extra-time and paved the way for record goal-scorer Harry Kane to grab a winner.
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- Getty Images
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Bellingham worked through several celebrations after finding the target – including his most iconic one, which was delivered alongside Kane – but one gesture aimed in the direction of the stands could land him in hot water.
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WHAT BELLINGHAM SAID
The 21-year-old has rubbished any suggestion that the lewd gesture, which saw him move his hand back and forth towards his groin, was aimed at the Slovakian bench. Bellingham has posted on social media when explaining his antics: “An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”
- Getty
DID YOU KNOW?
are, however, among those to report that Bellingham could now face sanction. UEFA rules dictate that any player making an “obscene gesture” or engaging in “offensive or insulting action” can be handed a ban. European football’s governing body will review the reports of the match referee and officials before taking any action.
