Jude Bellingham scored a crucial goal deep into stoppage time to save England's Euro 2024 hopes, leading to wild celebrations. Amidst the excitement, Bellingham made what appeared to be a rude gesture towards Slovakia's bench, which he later clarified on social media was an inside joke aimed at friends in attendance, not disrespect towards Slovakia. Following the victory, there was a clash between Declan Rice and Slovakia's manager Francesco Calzona, resulting in Rice being held back by teammates Ivan Toney and Ezri Konsa after exchanging expletives. Despite the controversy, Bellingham praised England's performance and addressed the criticism the team faced.
Jude Bellingham has spoken out after he was spotted making what appeared to be a rude X-rated gesture, towards Slovakia's bench, in the aftermath of scoring deep in stoppage time, to rescue England's Euro 2024 hopes.
The 21-year-old was the Three Lions hero as he struck late with a stunning bicycle kick that crept through a crowded penalty box and past a desperately stretching Martin Dubravka.
Bellingham led wild celebrations as he was mobbed by his teammates who feared they were exiting the tournament under embarrassing circumstances before his goal.
The midfield star appeared to shout 'I'm him' amidst celebrations and was seen appearing to signal in the direction of Slovakia's bench as England found footing at the last possible moment.
A viral social media post shows Bellingham walking alongside England captain Harry Kane - who went on to score the winning goal at the start of extra time.
The brief interaction shows the Three Lions leader first putting his hand to his mouth before moving it towards his groin and making a series of movements.
Bellingham stares in one direction as he produced the celebration while walking across the Gelsenkirchen turf, but he has now confirmed his actions were aimed at the Slovakia dugout.
Taking to social media after the victory, Bellingham clarified the situation, stating: 'An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game.
'Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.'
The moment was a bizarre reaction from Bellingham who has been praised for his maturity and calmness amongst England's ranks despite being one of their youngest players.
Speaking after the match he hit out at critics who have been underwhelmed by the performances of Gareth Southgate's side at Euro 2024.
'Goodwin, through to the next round, and very happy. It's been tough the last week or so to try and keep the negative energy outside of the camp,' he told ITV.
Meanwhile, ugly scenes at full-time saw Slovakia's manager Francesco Calzona clash with Bellingham's midfield team-mate, Declan Rice, in the immediate aftermath of England's win.
TV footage captured Calzona pushing Rice away after approaching referee Umut Meler following the final whistle.
The England star took exception and was seen furiously gesticulating and aiming expletives
