How England vs Slovakia referee survived a beating from a club PRESIDENT to complete Euro 2024 dream
THE Turkish referee who was punched by a club president will be the man in the middle for England’s last-16 clash with Slovakia.
Whistler Halil Umut Meler, 37, will be in charge of keeping the peace at Gelsenkirchen.
In December, he was attacked on the pitch by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca after the supremo’s side drew 1-1 with Rizespor.
Rizespor scored a last-gasp leveller in a bad-tempered clash that included two red cards.
Koca stormed onto the pitch at full-time before confronting Meler, with the official kicked on the floor after being punched by the president.
Meler was later pictured looking battered and bruised in hospital.
But on being discharged, he confirmed: “There is no problem with my health.”
It sparked outrage in Turkey, with the attack prompting the temporary suspension of the Turkish Super Lig.
Koca ended up resigning as Ankaragucu president after a court ordered his arrest while Meler continued refereeing to earn a spot at the Euros.
England topped their group with an opening win against Serbia with draws to Denmark and Slovenia following.
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Slovakia await in the last 16 on Sunday and Phil Foden is back having gone to the UK for the birth of his third child.
Meanwhile, Declan Rice and Kieran Trippier worked on individual programmes to aid their load – but are expected to play against Slovakia.
Luke Shaw still remains an unused member of the squad after being selected while still carrying an injury.
But the Manchester United star has now declared himself fit and could feature against Slovakia.