Alan Shearer Slams Italy Striker Ciro Immobile For 'Pathetic' Play-Acting Vs Belgium

But as soon as he realised Barella had fired the Azzurri ahead in the 31st minute, Immobile made a miraculous recovery and was up and off celebrating with his teammates.

It was almost like he had "come back to life" in a matter of moments.

Plenty saw the funny side and made Immobile become a massive meme on social media. But Newcastle legend Shearer, the Premier League's all-time top goalscorer, was furious.

"I don't even want to laugh at that because that is pathetic," the former England striker said on the BBC's coverage.

"You can see him have a look at the referee before he even goes down. It's pathetically embarrassing, that's what it is!"

Immobile, who has scored twice in four appearances at Euro 2020, was replaced by Torino's Andrea Belotti in the second half.

Roberto Martinez's side threw everything in an attempt to find an equaliser but the Italians were typically dogged defensively and held on to reach the semi-finals.

Reports say he could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines having picked up the injury in Munich.