Jude Bellingham is under investigation by UEFA who have set a strict deadline for the England star.
Bellingham was England’s hero in the Euro 2024 round of 16 clash with Slovakia, scoring a stunning overhead kick in injury time to keep the Three Lions alive - captain Harry Kane netted in extra-time to seal their place in the last eight.
With a clash against Switzerland on the horizon, England fans are awaiting a verdict from UEFA after the European body confirmed they have launched an investigation into Bellingham’s gesture in the direction of the Slovakia bench.
The 21-year-old wrote on X the gesture was an ‘inside joke’ but UEFA have written a letter to the England star.
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Bellingham has been asked to explain his actions and has just three days to respond to the letter.
England face Switzerland on Saturday and Bellingham could be facing a ban for his actions, though that outcome is seen as unlikely.
The Real Madrid midfielder will maintain he meant no offence by the gesture, according to The Daily Mail, but UEFA will also write to the Slovakian FA for their reflections on the alleged offence.
Bellingham wrote on X: “An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game.
“Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”
There is currently no indication as to when UEFA’s investigation will be concluded.
The decision to investigate Bellingham’s actions has been widely condemned, with BBC lead host Gary Lineker wasting no time in reacting to the decision.
He wrote on X: “For crying out loud, the Euro 2024 celebration police are looking into Jude Bellingham. Ridiculous!”
Phil Foden would be the likely candidate to replace Bellingham if he is unavailable for the game against the Swiss.
The Man City star has struggled to replicate his fantastic club form while playing on the left of the attacking midfield trio with his country but a move to the middle could help him get back to his best.
Topics: Jude Bellingham, England, Euro 2024, UEFA, Phil Foden
Marcus Banks