TheCable

World football governing body FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against England midfielder Dele Alli after he gestured with his middle finger during England’s 2-1 win against Slovakia on Monday.

The 21-year-old was caught making the offensive gesture during the World Cup qualifying victory at Wembley, England.

At the time it looked like the Tottenham star directed the gesture at Clement Turpin, the referee, but he had said it was only a “joke” with Kyle Walker, his England team-mate.

“Just to clarify, the gesture tonight was a joke between me and my good friend Kyle Walker! Apologies for any offence caused!” he wrote on Twitter.

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

— Dele (@dele_official) September 4, 2017

If FIFA rules that the gesture was directed at the referee, Alli would be at risk of getting banned for at least three matches, including the World Cup opener.