Jude Bellingham is expected to avoid a ban for the X-rated gesture that accompanied his Euro 2024 goal against Slovakia, in a major boost for England.
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Scored stunning overhead kick in last-16Worked through a number of celebrationsExpected to be fined for crude gestureWHAT HAPPENED?
The Real Madrid superstar dug the Three Lions out of a serious hole in their last-16 showdown at this summer’s European Championship. His stunning overhead kick deep into stoppage-time kept England alive and paved the way for Harry Kane to grab a winning goal in extra-time.
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Having worked his way through several celebrations, Bellingham was caught on camera delivering a crude gesture towards the touchline. There were suggestions that said routine was aimed in the direction of the Slovakian bench and coaching team, which could have landed the 21-year-old in hot water.
WHAT BELLINGHAM SAID
UEFA subsequently launched an investigation into the incident, which fuelled talk of a possible suspension being handed out. Slovakia, though, lodged no complaint and Bellingham was quick to point out on social media that his celebration was part of an “inside joke” – having previously done likewise after netting for Real in a Clasico clash with Barcelona.
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With that in mind, German publication reports that Bellingham will likely be handed a five-figure fine. He will escape any further punishment for supposed unsportsmanlike conduct as it is difficult to prove who his gesture was aimed at.