Doku Returns To Belgium Camp After Birth Of First Child

Belgium winger Jérémy Doku has rejoined the national team’s FIFA World Cup camp after travelling to England for the birth of his first child.

The 24-year-old returned to Belgium’s base in Seattle after missing his side’s goalless draw against Iran to be present for the birth of his son, Praise.

The Royal Belgian Football Association said Doku travelled to London with the approval of team officials and was accompanied by a team doctor before returning to camp.

Doku featured in Belgium’s opening 1-1 draw against Egypt but was unavailable for the team’s second group match against Iran.

The winger is now expected to resume preparations with the squad ahead of Belgium’s next Group G fixture against New Zealand.

Speaking before leaving the camp, Doku said no parent would want to miss the birth of their first child.

His decision received support from several figures within the football community, including England striker Ollie Watkins, who described the birth of a first child as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Professional Footballers’ Association also backed the Belgian international, stating that players should be supported in balancing their professional careers with important family commitments.

Doku joins a number of footballers who have temporarily left national team camps to attend the birth of their children, including Fabian Delph during the 2018 FIFA World Cup and David Silva during his time at Manchester City.

Belgium will continue their World Cup campaign as they seek qualification for the knockout stages of the tournament.