Ex-PGMOL hits out as 'shocking' new Jude Bellingham footage emerges from England defeat to Argentina

Jude Bellingham cannot be fully blamed as new footage emerges of the England international lashing out at a referee.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that referees are "inviting problems" when standing in the middle of the pitch.

Thomas Tuchel's side looked set for their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 1966, only for Lionel Messi to turn on the style in the final few minutes.

Understandably, England supporters were deeply disappointed, and it would appear that Bellingham was just as angry, even frustrated enough to confront Ismail Elfath and his officials at full-time.

New footage from FIFA shows the Real Madrid man saying, "Some shocking ones there, but all the best," launching suggestions of an incoming sanction.

Instead of hitting out at the 23-year-old England star's actions, though, Hackett has decided to take aim at the referee, who was asking to be confronted at full-time.

Ismail Elfath to blame for Jude Bellingham's explosion

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett said: "I think that when players approach referees, it can be taken in many ways: frustration, disappointment.

"As a group of officials around the world, we're pretty tolerant. We want to facilitate a game. We want all the players to stay on the field of play.

"But behind it all are laws of the game and we are appointed to apply the laws of the game. Sometimes those are tough calls that upset players.

"I think this nonsense that takes place, particularly in the Premier League, and we see it in other countries, where the referee and his two assistants stand in the middle of the park.

"They're inviting problems. If you start to walk towards your tunnel exit and then somebody comes up and has a say, then by action, they form a dissent.

"If they're going to say something untoward, a report can go in on any incident of that nature. The manager of England should continue to say to his players, 'Don't approach the referee, don't get involved'."

England star already in hot water after Argentina

A lot was made of the relationship between Bellingham and Tuchel during the tournament, and some of the rumours of immaturity might be true.

Right after his snide comment towards the referee, the Real Madrid star lashed out at Valentin Barco, slapping the midfielder on the back of the head.

At the time, Bellingham faced no consequences, but Hackett agreed that the talented midfielder should be banned for his actions after the full-time whistle.

It's certainly not a good look for one of the Three Lions' most exciting and talented players. But looking at FIFA's decisions at the World Cup, punishment isn't likely.