Patrick Bamford struck a 19th-minute hat-trick at Villa Park last night – and it got supporters talking given his peculiar ‘Z’ goal celebration. The 27-year-old helped Leeds United to a 3-0 victory and, after notching a brilliant second, he chucked up sign to the television cameras. The vast majority of the West Midlands football family thought Bamford mocked Villa with a ‘Z’ in reference to Birmingham City’s notorious Zulu Warriors hooligan firm.
Back in 2018 ex-Villa defender Micah Richards landed himself in hot water after chucking a ‘Z’ while on holiday – not knowing he was asked to do so by a Birmingham City fan. Fast-forward to last night and social media was awash with users believing Bamford made a ‘Z’ sign in a jibe at Villa fans knowing their rivalry with Blues supporters. However, it’s since been revealed this season’s six-goal ace did it in support of Hylo Athletics – an eco-friendly sports trainer brand Bamford’s an advocate of. The sportswear company’s logo is a lightening bolt – hence Bamford’s celebration at Villa Park on Friday evening.
A statement describing the recyclable trainer business is as follows: “As a company, we pledge that there will be no creation without conservation. This is why we designed our shoes to be completely reused when you’re finished with them. We only source natural materials that are proven to be best in class for performance.”
