Speedy Bellingham

JUDE Bellingham has expressed surprise at the speed of his ascent to World Cup stardom after playing a pivotal role in England’s thumping opening win over Iran.

The 19-year-old scored his first international goal in the 6-2 win in Al Rayyan, making him the second teenager to score for England at a World Cup after Michael Owen’s heroics as an 18-year-old in 1998.

“I always dreamed I would be here but I never thought it would be this early,” he said.

“It’s maybe three years since my professional debut and I’ve been given the opportunity to do things that a lot of people haven’t done in their whole careers, and I’m so grateful.”

Bellingham headed England’s opener in the 35th minute of the Group B clash.

“It is difficult to sleep,” added Bellingham. “I was up all night trying to reply to messages and speak to people about how the game was.

“It was a really nice day but there is a level of professionalism when it comes to being ready the next day and good to go on Friday, because you don’t get given the World Cup for winning one game.”