Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has told the Lions’ Den that Jude Bellingham has “surprised” him in terms of just how good the Dortmund star is becoming – amid reports Liverpool and Manchester United both want to sign him.
Still only 19, Bellingham comes into the World Cup in Qatar as a probable starter in Gareth Southgate’s side. With the World Cup starting on Sunday as Qatar face Ecuador, England get under way against Iran on Monday afternoon.
With Kalvin Phillips injured for much of the campaign since his move to Manchester City, Bellingham is likely to start. Indeed, Declan Rice is a no-brainer and it is up to Southgate who partners the West Ham skipper in midfield.
Bellingham continues to grow, scoring nine goals this season for Dortmund – and wearing the captain’s armband. 90Min say Liverpool and Manchester United scouts watched Bellingham in a 4-2 loss to Gladbach this month.
Asked by an England fan, which young player is going to become the next big thing for England – Shaw responded. He pinpointed perhaps the obvious answer, but explained why Bellingham has “surprised” him more than others.
“The one I was most-surprised by is Jude. He’s still young now and the talent he possesses is unbelievable. He can do everything in the middle, drive with the ball, pass, aggressive, he can honestly do everything.
“At 16, even then, wow. This guy is so good. He has always had the talent but he is gaining the experience. He is getting the strength, captaining his club, the steps he is taking are leading him in the right direction,” Shaw said.
Bellingham surprised Shaw amid Liverpool, Manchester United reports
Bellingham’s aggression, unerring confidence and mixture of defensive work and goals in the final third could just be the tool England need to go on and end their 56-year wait to win a second World Cup – out in Qatar.
England are definitely not the favourites, but they are among a group of countries that could win the World Cup. You would argue that Brazil, France and Argentina are best-equipped to hold aloft the trophy on December 18.
But if Bellingham can find his best form, the kind of form that has seen him captain Dortmund on occasion, then he could be a real driving force towards the trophy. For Liverpool and United, his price tag would only grow.
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