Jude Bellingham under investigation by UEFA for actions in Slovakia win

Posted by author July 1, 2024 Football

Responding to a post on X which claimed his actions were directed Slovakia’s players and coaches, he wrote: “Inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”

He began the post with a yawn emoji, implying he was already tired of people misinterpreting the gesture. Bellingham also inserted a handshake icon in a bid to underline his praise for Francesco Calzona’s team.

But UEFA officials have not seen the funny side. In a released statement on Monday, the authority confirmed: “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.”

UEFA did not put a timescale on their investigation or any subsequent decision, adding: “Information on this matter will be made available in due course.”

Furthermore, the English FA had been charged of two counts of fan behaviour following the last-16 clash in Gelsenkirchen. UEFA confirmed their Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body was investigating a ‘Lack of order or discipline by supporters’ and the ‘Lighting of fireworks’ by supporters of the Three Lions.

Gareth Southgate will now fear action against his key man, who despite a poor individual display over the 90 minutes again showcased his ability to produce in big moments. England are already missing the suspended Marc Guehi for their quarter-final clash with Switzerland on Saturday.

Bellingham initially cut a defiant figure after England’s extra time win, and took aim at critics of the team in his post-match press conference. “It’s not nice to hear – but you can always use it,” he said.

“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.”