England's Jude Bellingham investigated by UEFA over gesture during Slovakia game
Jude Bellingham has reportedly found himself in a bit of hot water with UEFA following England's nail-biting victory over Slovakia. Less than a day after his last-minute wonder goal kept England's Euro 2024 dreams alive, the 21 year old midfielder is facing the possibility of disciplinary action for what seemed to be an explicit hand gesture.
Caught on camera as he jogged back to the midfield after netting an incredible overhead kick, Jude was seen making what looked like a crotch-grabbing motion.
Taking to social media to clear the air, Jude responded to a tweet from X, which suggested his actions were aimed at the Slovakian squad and their coaching staff, saying: "Inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight."
He kicked off his explanation with a yawn emoji, hinting at his exasperation with the supposed misinterpretation of his actions. To further emphasise his commendation for Francesco Calzona's side, Jude included a handshake emoji in his post.
Despite his clarifications, UEFA isn't laughing. On Monday, they announced through a statement: "An UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct by the English Football Association player, Jude Bellingham, having allegedly occurred in the scope of this match, reports the Express.
UEFA has remained tight-lipped about the timeline for their probe or any resulting decisions, stating only: "Information on this matter will be made available in due course."
The English FA could be facing charges over fan behaviour following the intense last-16 match in Gelsenkirchen, with UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body investigating allegations of 'Lack of order or discipline by supporters' and the 'Lighting of fireworks'.
England manager Gareth Southgate could be bracing for potential repercussions for his squad, especially as the team will already be without Marc Guehi due to suspension for their upcoming quarter-final game against Switzerland this Saturday.
Jude Bellingham, however, remained unshaken after England's victory in extra time, addressing the team's detractors in his post-match press conference. "It's not nice to hear - but you can always use it," he declared.
He added, "After moments like that, it's always nice to throw something back to some people, I suppose. Playing for England is an enjoyable feeling but there's also a lot of pressure because you hear people talk a lot of rubbish."
