Gary Neville has declared that Jude Bellingham is outperforming legendary England players Paul Gascoigne, Michael Owen, and Wayne Rooney at World Cup level, following the Real Madrid star's dominant display in England's 2-1 victory over Norway in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals.
Neville's Bold Claim
Speaking after the match, Neville told ITV Sport: "I've never seen any player like Jude Bellingham at a World Cup for England. Gazza in 1990, Owen in 1998, Rooney in 2004 – none of them ripped up a tournament like this. He's running the show."
Bellingham's Heroics
Bellingham scored one goal and assisted another as England came from behind to beat Norway at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. The 23-year-old midfielder has now registered four goals and three assists in six matches at the tournament, earning him widespread praise.
England manager Gareth Southgate said: "Jude is in a different league. He's carrying the team on his shoulders."
Historical Context
Neville's comparison places Bellingham above iconic England performances: Gascoigne's 1990 run to the semi-finals, Owen's breakthrough in 1998, and Rooney's Euro 2004 exploits. None of those players, however, led England to a World Cup final – a feat Bellingham is now one win away from achieving.
England will face either Brazil or France in the final on Sunday.
