Heartwarming moment England stars urge fourth-choice goalkeeper Jason Steele to collect a bronze medal after win over France – even though unsung hero wasn’t in the squad!

England stars including Jude Bellingham urged goalkeeper Jason Steele to join the team on stage to collect their bronze medals at the World Cup in a heartwarming moment.

Steele, 35, has never been capped by the senior team but has been in and around camps with Tuchel as a bridge between management and the players.

The Brighton shot-stopper is essentially fourth choice for the Three Lions, but wasn’t part of the official squad for the tournament in North America.

He has, however, been training with the team, while also cheering them on during games and playing a key role behind the scenes.

Steele watched on as the players were awarded with their bronze medals after beating France 6-4 on Saturday, but was quickly ushered onto the podium.

The likes of Bellingham and Rogers called for Steele to join them, and the former Sunderland man ran across the pitch to collect a medal, which was placed on him by Jordan Henderson.

Steele played for England at youth level but has never played for the senior team. He received his first call-up in March, and has been taken to North America as a training goalkeeper.

Last season, he played five games for Brighton, all coming in cup competitions.

He has been a regular in previous seasons, however, and has more than 350 professional appearances to his name.

Tuchel said after naming his squad in May: ‘We chose three goalkeepers plus Jason Steele.

‘I want to take the opportunity to thank Jason for being brilliant and thank Brighton for being so co-operative and supportive.’

Steele is set to be second-choice goalkeeper at Brighton again next season, supporting Bart Verbruggen.

His deal at the club runs until the end of the next campaign.

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