Jude Bellingham has revealed the conversation he had with his mum, Denise, that could have a huge bearing on England's World Cup. Bellingham scored both goals on Saturday as England beat Norway 2-1 after extra time to reach the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Bellingham's mother's advice
The 23-year-old Real Madrid star was one of four England players walking a suspension tightrope during the Norway game. If any of he, Nico O'Reilly, Marc Guehi or Declan Rice had picked up a yellow card during the quarter-final, they would have been suspended for the semi-final. However, the only player to receive a yellow card across the full 120 minutes was Norway's Kristoffer Ajer, as England escaped with a perfect disciplinary record. The quartet on yellow cards have their risk of suspension wiped, ahead of the semi-final, meaning all are free to play, including Bellingham.
“My mum's been telling me all week to watch my language, watch my tackles, watch my face, watch my emotions,” Bellingham said after the match. “I think she drilled it into me all week about being careful of that yellow card,” he added.
Referee praised
Bellingham also praised referee Clement Turpin for his management of the game. “Credit to the referee. He was class. He still let you communicate in a respectful way. A lot of referees don't let you do that. So I think when I get the balance right and there's a referee who's willing to listen, it makes it a lot easier. And in the end, it was just a really well-competed game of football, and luckily I got through it.”
Bellingham has scored six goals at this World Cup, making him England's top scorer in the tournament. His double against Norway ensured England's place in the last four, where they will face a formidable Argentina side led by Lionel Messi. The semi-final is scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta, with kick-off at 8pm local time.
