Jude Bellingham, who is set to be priced at £130 million (SPORT) in the summer showcased why Liverpool must go all out to sign him as he bossed Iran in England’s 6-2 victory in their Qatar World Cup opener.
Bellingham’s complete performance should prompt Liverpool to pay the big bucks
Perhaps the finest aspect about the youngster’s showing was the number of boxes he ticked against Carlos Queiroz’s side.
Defensively, the teenage sensation mopped up everything in sight, making interceptions for days, pressing relentlessly and covering every blade of grass.
With there being an undeniable dip in Fabinho’s athleticism, Bellingham’s incredible defensive nous was proof that he could be the ideal partner, as well as a stellar backup to the Brazilian.
But it was going forward where perhaps the most sought-after midfielder showcased just why Dortmund demand Liverpool, or any suitor for that matter to break the bank to sign him.
In the 35th minute, Bellingham powered in an incredible header to kick off the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign in style.
Once again, the youngster’s goal exhibited that whilst many profile him as a player that thrives deeper, the truth is that he has unlocked a new level in the final third.
For years on end, the Reds have been crying out for a midfielder who can get on the end of chances and shoulder the goalscoring burden from Mohamed Salah, in particular.
Aside from the strike as well, the way the former Birmingham City starlet danced past two Iranian defenders to play Harry Kane in to set up Raheem Sterling was a reminder of how underrated he remains as a technician.
Similarly for Jack Grealish’s tap-in, Jude Bellingham’s stunning pre-assist to set Callum Wilson was an insight into how much of a weapon he is in attacking areas.
While Thiago is perhaps Liverpool’s most attack-minded midfielder, the England international would provide a completely different dimension to the side in terms of his unstoppable ball-carrying and his goalscoring ability.
And with him being technically secure in deeper areas as well, Bellingham showed how comfortable he is playing in a double pivot as well.
As Liverpool target Jude Bellingham put in a masterclass against Iran, he also managed to remind the world that he is a world-class No.6, No.8 and No.10 rolled into one and exactly the all-encompassing midfielder the club are in desperate need of.
In a midfield where the likes of Jordan Henderson and James Milner, who are far from their best still get consistent minutes, Jurgen Klopp’s men must make it top priority to go all out for the Englishman.
Bellingham showed Liverpool why he is the perfect player to kickstart their much-needed revamp in the middle of the park against Iran.
And after all, if Steven Gerrard says he is a “massive fan” of a midfielder (via Eurosport) the Reds know what to do next.
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