Just a year ago, Jude Bellingham's place in the England squad was uncertain. Now he is being talked about as having the potential to be one of football's "greatest of all time". The Real Madrid man was left out of Thomas Tuchel's Three Lions squad in October 2025, but made the World Cup squad and was England's top scorer with seven goals as they reached the semi-finals and finished third.
In the Nations League, Bellingham was instrumental in England's 7-0 win over Croatia, scoring and registering a hat-trick of assists while wearing the captain's armband. Former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder Roy Keane said Bellingham "can go on to be one of the greatest players of all time", praising his running power, delivery, goal threat, and work rate. Former England defender Matt Upson said Bellingham is "nailed on as the 10" for the future.
England's front four shared praise, with Harry Kane scoring twice, Bukayo Saka twice, and Anthony Gordon scoring and assisting. Kane is set to equal Peter Shilton's England appearance record against the Czech Republic. Bellingham became the first player to record three assists in an England game since Trent Alexander-Arnold against San Marino in November 2021.
Former England striker Ian Wright praised his athleticism, technical ability, and intensity. Tuchel said the performance showed Bellingham had reached a new level and that he had "adjusted some things" after the World Cup, giving players more responsibility.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing