World football governing body, FIFA have today opened disciplinary proceedings against England midfielder, Dele Alli for his middle finger gesture during their world cup qualifier against Slovakia.
After the 2-1 victory at Wembley on Monday night, it was suggested that Alli directed the gesture towards referee, Clement Turpin who refused to blow his whistle for a foul after Alli and former Liverpool defender, Martin Skrtel clattered into each other on the edge of the Slovakia penalty area.
Subsequently, Alli and his national team coach, Gareth Southgate have come out to refute the claims, adding that the gesture was jokingly directed towards his friend and former Spurs team mate, Kyle Walker.
‘Just to clarify, the gesture tonight was a joke between me and my good friend Kyle Walker! Apologies for any offence caused! Great win 2nite,’ Alli tweeted after the game.
Despite these explanations, FIFA has confirmed that it has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Spurs midfielder. “We can confirm that disciplinary proceedings have been opened following this incident. Please understand we cannot comment further at this stage,” a FIFA spokesperson said.
It remains to be the seen what the outcome of the investigation would be as the 21 year-old risks a fine and ban if found guilty.
