Former England striker Ian Wright has leapt to the defence of Jude Bellingham, claiming that some critics are not “ready for a black superstar”. The Real Madrid midfielder has faced scrutiny for his reaction to being substituted during England’s World Cup qualifier against Albania, with suggestions he is a disruptive influence in the squad.
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Wright argued that Bellingham’s success and confidence unsettle certain people. “They cannot get to this guy. He is an achiever, he’s a winner, he goes out and does it,” Wright said. “They are trying to build something because England have qualified so easily. They need to have something else to pile on, on top of the narrative. I don’t think they’re ready for a black superstar who can move like Jude is moving. They can’t touch him.”
Wright contrasted Bellingham with other black players, noting that N’Golo Kanté is praised for his humility, while more outspoken figures like Paul Pogba or Bellingham face criticism. “Someone like Jude frightens these people because of his capability and the inspiration he can give,” Wright added. “Because if you are outspoken, black and playing to that level and not caring, that frightens certain people. It’s a tiring exercise to speak about.”
Bellingham was recalled to Thomas Tuchel’s squad for matches against Serbia and Albania after being left out in October. Wright revealed he had warned Bellingham ahead of his return. “I sent a message to Jude saying: ‘Be ready.’ Something was coming. It’s like a tsunami. Unless you play well and do something, it comes back,” Wright said. “He said: ‘What’s coming?’ and I told him: ‘Be ready for it’ – and it’s here.”
