Jeremy Doku returning to World Cup after flying to London for birth of his child

Belgian winger Jeremy Doku temporarily departed the World Cup to fly to London and be present for the birth of his first child, a son named Praise, with his wife Shireen on Monday.

Doku received medical clearance from the team doctor, Brahim Hacene, to fly without risk and was accompanied by a colleague, with the mother and baby reported to be doing wonderfully.

He is set to rejoin the Belgium squad on Tuesday evening in Seattle, expressing gratitude for the team's support and his readiness to return to represent his country.

Doku faced criticism from French TV presenter France Pierron for his decision, who controversially described the birth as a “disgusting moment” where the father is “completely useless”, though Pierron later apologised.

Doku, who missed Belgium's recent 1-1 draw with Iran due to illness, is expected to be available for their final Group G fixture against New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday.