Footballer Doku welcomes first child during World Cup

Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has welcomed his first child, just days after his decision to potentially leave the FIFA World Cup camp for the birth

The Belgian Football Association announced on Monday that Doku and his wife have welcomed a baby boy named Praise in London.

According to the federation, the 24-year-old was granted permission to temporarily leave the Red Devils camp after discussions with the team’s medical staff, having already been ruled out of Belgium’s clash with Iran due to illness.

“Jeremy received the news before yesterday’s match that the birth was imminent,” team doctor Brahim Hacene said.

Hacene explained that Doku had been undergoing treatment for several days and was medically cleared to travel.

“As he had already been receiving the appropriate medical treatment for several days, he was able to fly without any medical risk to be with his family during this very special moment,” he said.

“Mother, father, and baby are all doing wonderfully.”

Doku is expected to rejoin the Belgium squad in Seattle on Tuesday as they continue their World Cup campaign.

The Manchester City star had earlier stated that he wanted to be present for the birth of his first child, a stance that drew criticism from some quarters before the tournament. Belgium have so far drawn both of their group-stage matches.