Legendary former Arsenal striker Ian Wright was caught on camera as he celebrated Jude Bellingham’s goal for England v Slovakia.
England were able to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat on Sunday evening, as Jude Bellingham’s last gasp equaliser against Slovakia forced the tie to extra-time, when Harry Kane popped up with a winner for the Three Lions.
Gareth Southgate’s side produced an abject performance for the vast majority of this Euro 2024 clash. Arsenal duo Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were both included in the starting XI, but like their teammates, they could not impose themselves on the match, in the first half especially.
Arsenal fans felt that Rice did a solid job for his country against Slovakia, whilst Saka was required to put in a shift at left-back, but ultimately the entire team needs to improve if England are to reach the final of this competition.
Having conceded in the first half, England looked destined for a humiliating exit, before Jude Bellingham pulled a rabbit out of the hat in the 95th minute. The Real Madrid star’s bicycle kick picked out the bottom corner and offered salvation to Southgate and his players.
Relief swept over the England supporters in Gelsenkirchen, back at home, and all over the world. Back in the ITV studio, Ian Wright could not contain his joy.
Arsenal icon Ian Wright enjoyed Jude Bellingham strike for England
Wright is currently in Germany, covering Euro 2024 as a pundit. He, Roy Keane, and Gary Neville were watching on in the studio as Bellingham pulled off his spectacular saviour act.
ITV have now posted behind the scenes footage that shows how Wright, Neville, and Keane all reacted to Bellingham’s goal to their official X account.
Wright actually had his back to the screen at the crucial moment, but turned as he heard Neville begin to celebrate. The pair then hugged and began bouncing around the studio. As Neville then wheeled away, arms aloft, emitting high-pitched squeals of delight, Wright called out claiming to have broken his microphone during the jubilation.
Meanwhile, the former Republic of Ireland international, Keane, was understandably far more muted in his response to the goal.
Wright vindicated after Bukayo Saka claim
Prior to this match, Wright had suggested that Southgate may consider using Saka at left-back. The 22-year-old has not played in that position for a long time, and has long since established himself as one of the best right-wingers in the Premier League, under the guidance of Mikel Arteta.
However, Wright’s suggestion unexpectedly came to pass on Sunday evening. The Arsenal legend had been criticised by some for his view, but will be feeling somewhat vindicated now.