England’s ‘New Midfield General’
Phil Foden, Rio Ferdinand praise 19-year-old Jude Bellingham’s performance
Phil Foden expects England team-mate Jude Bellingham to become the world’s best midfielder after a stunning performance during victory over Senegal at the World Cup.
Bellingham has been the standout performer for the Three Lions in Qatar, from scoring their first goal - his first at international level - to dominant midfield displays, none more so than against the reigning African champions yesterday (Fiji time).
The 19-year-old set up Jordan Henderson for the opener, then produced a thrilling surging
run to create the opening for Harry Kane’s goal just before the break as England ran out comfortable 3-0 winners.
And Foden, who produced two assists on the night himself, is confident Bellingham will be considered the best in the world.
He told ITV: “I don’t want to big him up too much as he’s still a young, but he’s one of the most gifted players I’ve ever seen.
“I don’t see a weakness in his game. I think he’s got everything and he will become the best midfielder in the world, for sure.”
Next up is reigning champions France for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
Foden continued: “We’re all buzzing with the result. We will celebrate but it’s knockout football so we will have to recover tomorrow and think about the next opponent, which will be really tough.
He added: “They look like the strongest in the competition up until now, but we back ourselves on the day.”
Also, former Manchester United and Engaldns defender Rio Ferdinand has also praised the youngster.
“The authority that he plays with on the pitch goes well beyond his years - he’s a fabulous footballer but to deliver at a World Cup like that at that age...,” Ferdinand said.
“I’m not saying he’s better or going to be as good as all of them but at this age none of them were doing what he was doing and it’s just fabulous to see.”