England vs Slovakia gets controversial referee as Turkish Meler return after brutal attack

Turkish referee Halil Umut Meler will officiate England's game when they face Slovakia in a crucial round of 16 clash on Sunday in the ongoing European Championship.

This selection comes amidst controversy, as Meler was the victim of a shocking attack just six months ago.

England head into the match needing a strong performance after a shaky group stage showing with two draws and one win. Gareth Southgate's team will be aiming to silence their doubters and secure a convincing victory.

In December, during a Turkish league match, Meler was brutally attacked by the president of a club in the country.

The incident, dubbed a "night of shame" for Turkish football, saw Meler punched in the face by the club president after the game ended in a draw.

Disturbing footage showed Meler being kicked while on the ground before being escorted off the field by riot policemen.

Meler was initially hospitalized with a neck brace, but he displayed remarkable strength recovering swiftly, and was discharged within a day.

The attack sparked outrage as FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the incident, calling it "unacceptable."

The attacker, the club president, defended himself with a dubious claim that Meler had "thrown himself to the ground."

The Turkish Football Federation sanctioned the club with a hefty fine and instructed that all their games be played behind closed-doors.