Belgian national team player Jeremy Doku is expected back with his teammates in Seattle this Tuesday. The Manchester City winger had temporarily stepped away from the squad to be present for the birth of his newborn son, Praise.
Before leaving for London, Doku had been sidelined during Sunday’s match against Iran because of a respiratory infection. Team physician Brahim Hacene stated that Doku’s medical recovery allowed him to travel safely to his family. Dr. Brecht De Coninck accompanied him, and reports confirm that the mother and child are healthy.
Belgium currently faces a must-win situation against New Zealand this Friday to maintain their chances of advancing in the World Cup following two initial draws. Meanwhile, the French sports outlet L’Equipe publicly apologized after commentator France Pierron sparked outrage by criticizing Doku for prioritizing his family over the tournament.
