Jude Bellingham: The Key to England's Euro 2024 Success and Ending the Silverware Drought
Jude Bellingham's extraordinary consistency at just 20 years old makes him England's X-factor With performances like his against Italy, he proves to be years ahead of his time Now is the time for England to end their trophy drought, with the best squad around
Paul Merson believes that Jude Bellingham is the key player for England and urges Gareth Southgate's team to bring home the silverware by winning Euro 2024. England showcased their resilience by mounting a thrilling comeback against Italy at Wembley, winning 3-1 and securing their spot in the upcoming tournament. Despite conceding an early goal to Gianluca Scamacca, captain Harry Kane led the charge with a penalty conversion and a clinical finish, supported by Marcus Rashford's breakaway goal.
Kane's impressive goal-scoring abilities once again proved crucial for England, as he extended his international tally to 61. However, it was Jude Bellingham who shone as the true star of the match. Not only did he win the penalty for the equalizing goal, but he also displayed a remarkable burst of speed to set up Rashford for the second goal. The 20-year-old received a standing ovation when he was substituted late in the game. Southgate praised Bellingham's exceptional mentality, describing him as incredibly mature and humble, especially considering his young age. England is fortunate to have him on the team.
Merson praised Bellingham's performance and his impressive displays this season for Real Madrid and England, stating that he possesses a level of skill beyond his years. He also expressed his belief that England's players are now the object of admiration worldwide and emphasized the need for them to finally achieve success by winning a major tournament, starting with Euro 2024 next summer. Keep reading for Merson's complete insights.
'His consistency at a young age is phenomenal'
Jude Bellingham is absolutely phenomenal!
Being consistently phenomenal at the age of 20 is truly noteworthy, with consistency being the crucial factor. While there is plenty of talk about numerous players, particularly in the Premier League, often there is a fluctuation in their performance. They may rate at a four out of 10 at one moment, rise to a nine out of 10, drop back down to a four, and then climb back up to a nine.
Bellingham is an eight or nine, even 10, every week!
Putting in performances like he did against Italy, on the top stage, week in and week out, it's mind blowing.
'Bellingham is years ahead of his time'
He has received nine Player of the Match awards this season, which is incredibly remarkable. Considering his age and the fact that he plays in the toughest position on the football field, it is quite astonishing.
At just 20 years old, his remarkable maturity shines through. Both on and off the field, he consistently makes the correct choices.
Decision-making is paramount in football, and he is currently displaying the decision-making abilities of a player much older, perhaps 28 or 29, and acing them all.
It's so hard to explain what he's doing. He's years ahead of his time.
'Bellingham is England's X-factor'
Winning tournaments calls for world-class players; those who can truly make a difference in the game.
In the recent World Cup, France's journey to the final was facilitated by the exceptional skills of Kylian Mbappe, while Argentina emerged victorious thanks to Lionel Messi. Similarly, Cristiano Ronaldo had previously played a vital role in Portugal's successes.
Any team needs that X-factor. You just have to have it to win silverware.
Bellingham is England's X-factor.
To achieve success, it is crucial to have talented teammates. Being a part of a strong team provides the necessary foundation to perform at your best.
In the case of England, the pieces are finally falling into place. Their dependence on Harry Kane alone is now a thing of the past.
'This is England's time to end trophy drought'
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Harry Kane notched his 60th and 61st England goals against Italy
England boasts an impressive lineup consisting of John Stones, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane, forming a formidable spine. Additionally, the team is privileged to have two of the world's finest right backs in Kyle Walker and Reece James. Bukayo Saka leads the charge in front, accompanied by the talented trio of Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Marcus Rashford, all vying for the same position.
Currently, England is fortunate to be bestowed with such exceptional players. It is crucial to seize this opportunity and make the most of England's promising era.
This is their time to win something.
Look around, what is happening on the international stage? We recently faced Italy and easily defeated them. It's remarkable how their team, which once boasted 11 world class players, no longer possesses a single player that we would consider taking.
'England have the best squad around'
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Jude Bellingham is embraced by England goalscorer Harry Kane
For Euro 2024, I think it will be out of England, France and Portugal.
Without putting excessive pressure on anyone, if I had to choose, I would say England. I never thought I would witness England winning a championship in my lifetime, but now, whenever we participate in a tournament, I anticipate our victory.
Our squad boasts the most exceptional players in the field. Even without the likes of Bukayo Saka, Reece James, and Jack Grealish, we managed to overpower Italy. Kieran Trippier, while commendable for England, filled in as the sole left-back against the Italians. The depth of our talented roster provides us with an outstanding opportunity to break free from years without a trophy.
