England get Jude Bellingham boost amid ban talk as Real Madrid star set to learn punishment from UEFA for X-rated gesture against Slovakia at Euro 2024

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.

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.

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.

With that in mind, German publication Bild 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.

That is good news for England, as they are desperate to have 2024 Ballon d’Or contender Bellingham at their disposal for a quarter-final clash with Switzerland. That contest is due to take place in Dusseldorf on Saturday.