Former England striker Ian Wright has defended Jude Bellingham, claiming some critics are not “ready for a black superstar” and are “frightened” by his success. Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Wright addressed recent criticism of Bellingham’s reaction to being substituted during England’s World Cup qualifier in Albania, which some have labelled disruptive.
“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 N’Golo Kanté, describing Kanté as a “humble black man” who is widely liked, while suggesting that outspoken black players like Paul Pogba or Bellingham face greater scrutiny. “Someone like Jude frightens these people because of his capability and the inspiration he can give,” he added.
Bellingham was recalled to Thomas Tuchel’s squad for matches against Serbia and Albania after being omitted in October. Wright revealed he had messaged the midfielder before he joined up, warning him to “be ready” for criticism. “He said: ‘What’s coming?’ and I told him: ‘Be ready for it’ – and it’s here,” Wright said.
