It is an open secret that Nainggolan dares to smoke a cigarette. They know that at Antwerp, and nobody makes a problem of that. But the fact that he was spotted with an E-cigarette in the run-up to the match – and on the couch at that time – is perhaps a different story. “I didn’t see that”, was the short answer from Van Bommel when asked what he thought of that. But it was clear on the Dutchman’s face that he had questions about it. “I have to see those images myself before I can judge them.”
On the field, Nainggolan – who tried to light the fuse at Antwerp a few times – could not make the difference as a substitute. He can’t do it alone, of course. More than threatening with a flight shot (over) and a few nice crosses was not possible.
For example, Nainggolan’s turbulent week got an extra chapter yesterday, after he had to appear at the police station last Wednesday after driving without a driver’s license. After spending a few hours in jail, he was allowed to use again, albeit without his vehicle. That matter was discussed internally, there was no sanction from the club. He will have to explain it again to the police judge, he had to hand in his vehicle and in a new lawsuit he risks up to two years in prison, two years driving ban and a 16,000 euro fine.
There is a general smoking ban in Belgian football stadiums. The Pro League is probably looking at the case around Nainggolan’s E-cigarette today.
ALSO WATCH. Nainggolan ends up in jail for driving without a driver’s license
