Soccer-Bellingham 'incredible' but Kane is also key, says Southgate

LONDON (Reuters) – England manager Gareth Southgate praised the remarkable performance of Jude Bellingham, who played a key role in England’s 3-1 victory against Italy at Wembley on Tuesday, securing their spot in the Euro 2024 finals. Although the 20-year-old did not score, his influential presence and confidence were instrumental in driving the team forward, according to Southgate.

“I was really pleased with the way we controlled the game,” Southgate told reporters, adding, “With Jude, his mentality is incredible for his age. To have such an impact at such a young age, to show such maturity but also humility. We’re very lucky to have him.”

Bellingham has also been making waves at Real Madrid since his transfer from Borussia Dortmund earlier this year, impressively scoring 10 goals in his first 10 matches. Speaking after Tuesday’s game, Bellingham credited his move to Real for enhancing his game significantly.

“When you are around those mentalities and quality of players every day… it takes you to a new level mentally, physically, and technically,” he explained in an interview with the BBC.

Southgate regarded the young midfielder as a “catalyst” for the England team, highlighting his demeanor both on and off the field.

“Just the way he carries himself and the way he plays on the field shows that,” Southgate elaborated. “He’s had that since he walked through the door, frankly. Plus the power in his play, which gives us an advantage in tight situations when he can suddenly maneuver out of trouble.

“I think that belief, that willingness to engage with the crowd, they are rare traits in a player so young,” Southgate added.

While Bellingham received acclaim, Southgate also recognized the pivotal role played by captain Harry Kane, who scored two goals, including one from a penalty kick.

“There’s a risk we take the goals for granted,” Southgate acknowledged, referring to Kane becoming England’s all-time top scorer at Wembley with 24 goals. “But his all-round play, the way he physically dealt with the center backs, his vision, his passing — because we’ve had him for a while, he’s easy to underestimate, but he’s a top-level player.”

Southgate mentioned that Kane’s high-profile transfer to Bayern Munich from Tottenham Hotspur had injected a fresh impetus. Moreover, he emphasized Kane’s enjoyment and pride in representing England and being part of the national team again.

“Our senior players set a brilliant example for the young ones,” Southgate stated, expressing his admiration for the leadership exhibited by the experienced players.

(Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Toby Davis)