Leeds suffered a 4-2 defeat against Monaco in a friendly on Wednesday, where Joe Gelhardt was spotted doing something rather naughty.
What’s the story?
Well, the Leeds No.30 – who was signed from Wigan in a £1m deal back in 2020 – started against the French giants, and even got on the scoresheet with a 90th minute penalty.
Robin Koch netted the other goal for Leeds.
However, in the 40th minute, with the scoreline nicely balanced at 1-1, Gelhardt was spotted putting his middle finger up at one of the Monaco players, in a moment which could land him in hot water based on past events.
The 20-year-old collided with his opponent, and offered a hand out to help him up immediately after.
For whatever reason, Gelhardt then stuck his middle finger up at the Monaco man, who may have said something to provoke him – it is hard to tell what happens due to the cameras zooming in on the Leeds star, as you can see above.
Will Gelhardt be banned for actions in Leeds 2-4 Monaco?
Now, Leeds fans may remember Wilfried Zaha sticking his middle finger up at them during a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park back in 2013.
The Ivory Coast international was hit with a one-game ban and also a £3,000 fine by the FA as a result of his actions, after being charged with improper conduct.
Luis Suarez also received a one-game ban, and a fine of £20,000, after performing a similar gesture in front of the Fulham supporters in December 2012, as detailed by the Daily Mail.
Of course, Gelhardt’s actions came during a friendly, and were not aimed at an opposition fanbase, so it remains to be seen if he will suffer a similar fate to Zaha and Suarez.
Whatever happens, the Leeds wonderkid must be careful out on the pitch, as Jesse Marsch will surely be furious if he does end up receiving a ban for such a silly decision.
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