Gareth Southgate highlights Jude Bellingham’s ‘age’ while talking about his inappropriate celebration during game against Switzerland

Gareth Southgate praised UEFA's 'common sense' decision on Jude Bellingham's controversial celebration.

Gareth Southgate highlights Jude Bellingham’s ‘age’ while talking about his inappropriate celebration during game against Switzerland

Gareth Southgate commented upon Jude Bellingham's controversial celebration against Slovakia. (via IMAGO)

England manager Gareth Southgate highlighted Jude Bellingham‘s age, while speaking in defense of the player’s actions. The 21-year-old was charged by UEFA for an inappropriate celebration after scoring in the Round of 16 against Slovakia.

The Real Madrid star scored a stunning last-minute goal against Slovakia, helping his team advance to the Euro quarter-finals. Bellingham, then, celebrated his 95th-minute overhead kick by kissing his hand and appearing to grab his crotch. This prompted a UEFA investigation, with many interpreting it as an insult aimed at the opposition. He was handed a suspended one-match ban and fined €30,000, allowing him to play in the quarter-finals.

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England manager Gareth Southgate came out in support of his player, by downplaying the controversy surrounding the 21-year-old’s celebration. He attributed Bellingham’s celebration to the adrenaline rush of scoring a late goal at his young age and he would not expect him to react perfectly. Moreover, Southgate emphasized that the gesture wasn’t intended to offend anyone, admitting he didn’t know how he would have reacted in a similar situation at that age.

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I think it's a common-sense decision. Clearly it's an unprecedented moment in someone's life to score a goal like that in the 96th minute. I don't know how I'd have reacted if that was me, at his age as well.
Gareth Southgate on Jude Bellingham’s celebration (via The Guardian)

Additionally, the manager also praised Jude Bellingham‘s maturity beyond his years and his ability to influence crucial matches. He looks to the 21-year-old for another match-winning performance against Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.

Gareth Southgate hints under-fire English defender will start the quarter-final match against Switzerland

Gareth Southgate, ahead of England’s much-important quarter final clash against Switzerland, hinted that under-fire full-back Kieran Trippier would make the XI. Despite contributing to the Three Lions’ tight defensive record, the 33-year old has been criticized for lacking attacking prowess.

Gareth Southgate on Trippier
Gareth Southgate is expected to start Kieran Trippier at left-back. (via IMAGO)

The Newcastle right-back is filling in for an injured Luke Shaw at left-back. Ahead of the quarter-finals, Southgate praised Trippier’s leadership and communication on the pitch, calling it an underappreciated skill. He also expressed his belief that the 33-year-old has adapted well and deserves to retain the starting spot over Shaw.

Kieran Trippier has been absolutely outstanding for us. Luke is available to start but Kieran has also done a brilliant job for the team. His leadership, his communication, and his talking is phenomenal.
Gareth Southgate on Kieran Trippier (via Independent)

The Manchester United star remains on the bench, recovering from a hamstring injury. Although he returned to training this week, he is doubtful to feature in the upcoming match.

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