Jude Bellingham only just returned from his setback in Real Madrid’s game against Atletico Madrid earlier this month and was called up immediately for NT duty.
He did not participate in England’s game against Uruguay last week, nor is he expected to play against Japan later today, but it is clear that he will be vital for the team come the FIFA World Cup.
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One major debate in recent times, however, has been his role for the national team, as he has often been used deeper in midfield than where he plays for Real Madrid.
English legend talks about Bellingham’s NT role
Manchester United and England great Rio Ferdinand spoke on the Real Madrid star’s role with the national team in a recent interview (h/t The Madrid Zone) and explained why there is a need for his role to change.
Explaining how Bellingham’s brilliance and magic should be utilised closer to the goal, Ferdinand said,
“I want Jude Bellingham to be the moments guy with England,” he began.
Ferdinand has urged for a better role for Jude Bellingham. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
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Explaining what he meant by Bellingham being a ‘moments’ guy, the former defender said,
“Yeah, when there’s time to keep the ball and be the extra man in midfield, great.”
“But I want him to be the Frank Lampard of Chelsea in the England team and come up with big, special goals, like he’s done for Real Madrid before,” he added.
So far this season, Bellingham has played 19 La Liga games for Real Madrid and has four goals and three assists to show.
He averages 1.6 key passes per game and has created three big chances.
What has hindered his seamless participation, however, is Arda Guler’s rise, and it remains a struggle for management to devise a strategy that allows both players to coexist in harmony.
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