Jude Bellingham receives ban and fine ahead of England and Switzerland showdown - but there's a twist

After the win against Slovakia on Sunday night, Bellingham sparked controversy by appearing to perform a rude gesture.

He immediately took to social media to provide clarity, insisting it was merely an 'inside joke' between himself and some friends - as opposed to being aimed at the Slovakia bench.

UEFA announced in the aftermath of the win that they would be investigating the matter.

And Euro 2024 chiefs have now decided to fine Bellingham, with the 21-year-old having to fork out €30,000 (£25,400).

Bellingham has also been given a one-match ban.

However, given it's suspended, it means the youngster is free to play for England in their crunch clash with Switzerland on Saturday night.

Uefa’s control, ethics and disciplinary body found he was guilty of 'violating the basic rules of decent conduct'.

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Elaborating on his ban, they added: "Said suspension is not immediately enforced and is subject to a probationary period of one year, starting from the date of the present decision.”

Bellingham being free to play for England is a huge boost for the Three Lions.

The midfielder has enjoyed a terrific year at club level, firing Real Madrid to LaLiga and Champions League glory at the first time of asking following his arrival from Borussia Dortmund last summer.

And though he's not been at his brilliant best for England at Euro 2024, he's still popped up with big goals in big moments nonetheless.

He was the hero on matchday one, with his outstanding header against Serbia enough to secure all three points.

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And if it wasn't for Bellingham, England would already be out.

They were facing a shock 1-0 defeat to Slovakia on Sunday when the former Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid star scored a sensational overhead kick in the dying stages.

Harry Kane then proceeded to win the match for England, sparing their blushes in the process.

There is talk Southgate will tinker with his starting XI for the upcoming showdown with Switzerland on Saturday.

The England boss is reportedly set to go with three at the back and may play both Bellingham and Phil Foden in the No 10 position.

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And whether they can make it through to the semi-finals of the European Championships remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, speaking before Bellingham learned his punishment, former Germany star Didi Hamann said a suspension for the youngster would potentially be a 'blessing'.

Speaking to BILD, the former Manchester City and Liverpool star said: "Gareth Southgate should have made the decision earlier to take out Bellingham or Phil Foden.

"Now he may be forced to be lucky if Bellingham is suspended.

"If he has to sit out, that might even be a blessing. That might even help the team. Something has to happen."

England last faced Switzerland in March 2022.

They won 2-1 at Wembley, with Luke Shaw and Harry Kane both on target.