Jude Bellingham has mounted a passionate defence of Jordan Henderson's World Cup selection, stressing the midfielder's immense impact on the England squad. The 35-year-old's inclusion by Thomas Tuchel proved divisive among supporters and pundits, who felt a younger, more energetic option should have been chosen. However, Bellingham and teammate Morgan Rogers see things very differently.
Bellingham and Rogers Speak Out
The duo spoke with great conviction about what the Brentford star contributes to the squad. Bellingham told England's YouTube channel: "Don't get us started on Hendo, we could speak about Hendo..." Rogers then chimed in: "The best guy I've ever come across in football." When asked about Henderson being a contentious selection, Bellingham shook his head in disdain and said: "They don't have a clue what they're talking about. You know from being here for one week how important he is."
Rogers added: "If people did a blind ranking of people they want at the camp beforehand, he'd be in everyone's top five."
Henderson's Value On and Off the Pitch
Bellingham underlined Henderson's value for both light-hearted and serious reasons, remarking: "He's so funny, the funniest guy in this camp and he gets everyone laughing, he gets everyone together. If there's ever an issue, if you're 22, 23, you might feel it's a bit too much to raise it, he'll address it for you. If there's a problem between two people, he'll bring them together."
He continued: "He's that kind of person where even the staff will go to him to sort out issues. He's got no ego when it comes to supporting the team. He's a Premier League and Champions League-winning captain and he was doing the sets for the finishing. He doesn't have to do stuff like that, he doesn't have to be that humble, but every day he's relentless in training, pushing everyone to be better."
Bellingham added: "Some of the lads who haven't played as many minutes had a game against a local team. You watch him and it's like he's playing in an FA Cup final. I don't get how you don't admire that."
Bellingham Hits Back at Critics
Bellingham hit back at those questioning the reasoning behind Henderson's inclusion, saying: "He's a closed character when it comes to the press and that has given them a chance to create a narrative about why he's here. But for us inside, he's the first name on the teamsheet."
The former Liverpool skipper is participating in his seventh major tournament and could make history by becoming the first England men's player to appear in four World Cups. The Three Lions kick off their campaign against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday.
