Jeremy Doku Faces Criticism Over Childbirth Plans

Jeremy Doku is set to become a father next month and plans to leave the Belgium camp to be at the birth, even if they are still at the World Cup.

L'Equipe channel presenter France Pierron criticized Doku, saying a father is "completely useless" at the time of their child's birth.

Doku played 86 minutes of Belgium's opening 1-1 draw with Egypt in Group G.

The reaction in football was united, with England striker Ollie Watkins backing Doku's decision, stating that missing the birth of his first child would be tough.

The Professional Footballers' Association said demands placed on players should not be at the expense of "fundamental family moments".

Doku's wife Shireen is due to give birth during the second week of July, which could mean her husband missing a quarter-final if Belgium have progressed that far.

"If you ask me what I want, my answer is that nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child," Doku told Reuters.

The Fatherhood Institute also backed Doku, with deputy chief executive Jeremy Davies stating that players should be supported in balancing their professional responsibilities with important life events.