After putting up a standout performance against Italy on Tuesday night, Jude Bellingham, an England player, received a cruel touchline snub. He was instructed to return for his post-match interview just as Channel 4 was about to break. At Wembley Stadium, the Three Lions overcame a 1-0 deficit to secure their spot at Euro 2024.

Numerous players approached the touchline to welcome Channel 4 pundits Joe Cole, Gianfranco Zola, and Jill Scott after the full-time whistle blew. The last player to approach the trio was Bellingham, who also won a penalty and picked up an assist for the game. But presenter Jules Breach turned him away.

Breach stated, “Jude Bellingham wanted to share a bit of love with Gianfranco Zola, with Joe and Jill. He’s going to come over and have a proper chat with us in a minute.” And in a moment, Jude, you’re going to return and join us. We need to take a little break, so please return in a little while.

Against the Italians, Bellingham earned his 27th cap for England and displayed his extraordinary skills by controlling play and stealing possession. Gianluca Scamacca’s early goal had put the Three Lions behind, but he spurred his teammates on and gave them a boost.

Just after the half-hour mark, Giovanni di Lorenzo fouled the 20-year-old Real Madrid midfield player in the penalty area, allowing Harry Kane to tie the score from the spot. And as England seized the lead early in the second half, Bellingham set up Marcus Rashford. Thirteen minutes from the end, Kane’s second goal of the game put an end to any chance of an Italy comeback for England.

“The issue [with Bellingham] is the mindset,” England manager Gareth Southgate said following the game. It’s the conviction. We’re really fortunate to have someone with such conviction, influence on the game, ease of interaction with the crowd, and talent and skill in spades.

Bellingham, who joined Real Madrid this season after leaving Borussia Dortmund, has also been playing brilliantly for his new squad. And with England among the favorites to win the cup, the ace is anticipated to be one of the stars of the 2024 European Championship.

However, Channel 4 informed viewers that his interview would eventually be aired on their 4Seven channel, so they didn’t even get to speak with the athlete on their main program.