Alli to face Fifa action over gesture

Fifa has opened disciplinary proceedings against Dele Alli over his gesture during England’s World Cup qualifier against Slovakia.

Alli gestured with his middle finger during the 2-1 victory, an act he claims was directed towards team-mate and friend Kyle Walker.

“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. Following Monday night’smatchitwasinitially suggested Alli had directed the gesture towards referee Clement Turpin after a coming together with former Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel that was not given as a foul.

Both the player and England manager Gareth Southgate have since claimed it was in fact aimed in jest at Walker, a former team-mate of Alli at Spurs before his summer move to Manchester City.

It is understood the Football Association have more TV coverage of the incident, yet to be broadcast, which could be presented to back-up Alli’s stance should it be formally required by the world governing body, who will also have taken into account the view of the referee in his official match report.