ENGLAND players showed their class by inviting fourth-choice goalkeeper Jason Steele into the third-place celebrations.
And they even made sure he got a bronze medal despite not being part of the World Cup squad.
Morgan Rogers called over the back-up goalkeeper to join in the celebrations Credit: BBC
Jason Steele accepted the warm welcome from the England squad Credit: BBC
Jordan Henderson presented Steele with his medal Credit: Getty
Rogers was delighted for the Brighton goalkeeper Credit: BBC
England bounced back from their semi-final heartache against Argentina to beat France 6-4 in the play-off in Miami.
In one of the most bonkers matches ever in the World Cup, Bukayo Saka scored a hat-trick, Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise made history and Jude Bellingham became the first Englishman to grab seven goals at a single tournament.
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Despite conceding four, Dean Henderson had a blinder in goal as he filled in for Jordan Pickford as James Trafford sat out once more.
However, it was the inclusion of Steele in the medal ceremony that left fans feeling emotional.
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TV cameras showed the England team picking up their bronze medals and taking their place on the podium.
They then collectively summoned someone over to join in – and it turned out to be Steele.
The Brighton back-up goalkeeper, 35, has been in the England camp for the entire tournament as the stand-by training stopper.
But he was clearly appreciated by the 26-man squad as Morgan Rogers and Bellingham spearheaded inviting him on stage – and Steele gladly accepted a medal from the injured Jordan Henderson.
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Morgan Rogers was all smiles with Steele and John Stones Credit: Getty
Steele lined up for the photos with No1 Jordan Pickford Credit: Reuters
And that prompted a wave of responses on social media.
One said: “A classy touch from the England squad to make sure Jason Steele was part of the medal celebrations.”
Another wrote: “Did anyone just see that Jason Steele moment at the medal presentation? Had me tearing up.”
A third wept: “Them beckoning Jason Steele on to the stage why am I CRYING.”
A fourth added: “Nice to see Jason Steele getting some recognition for his hard work.”
And a final user quipped: “Jason Steele World Cup medals: 1. Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup medals: 0.”
