Wales manager Craig Bellamy has controversially predicted Thomas Tuchel’s England to win the World Cup this summer.
The Three Lions have not won the World Cup since 1966, but they are always one of the leading contenders to lift the trophy.
Having said that, fans of other countries often think England are overrated and enjoy watching them get knocked out.
Local rivals Wales would typically fall into that category, yet Bellamy has high expectations for England this time.
Craig Bellamy predicts England to win World Cup
Wales will not be heading to the United States for the World Cup, but they still played two games in the international break.
Craig Bellamy spoke to reporters about this summer’s tournament following Wales’ 2-1 defeat to Romania last weekend.
He initially named Spain as the team that could go all the way before settling on England as his pick to win the World Cup.
Bellamy did not explain why he believes in the Three Lions, but head coach Thomas Tuchel must have something to do with it.
However, Bellamy admitted the challenging conditions in North America could impact the English players.
The weather is expected to be extremely hot throughout the tournament, which is not suited to those based in England.
“I really like Spain, of course, but the conditions are always going to be key,” Bellamy told BBC Sport.
“Some might not like me saying this, but if the conditions are kind to England, it’s the first time I’ve ever said this: I think they go on and win it.”
The England players may not be used to playing in extreme heat, but they should be able to acclimatise to the conditions.
Assuming they make the final in New York, they would have spent six weeks in the United States and played 10 games.
Tuchel also has a 26-man squad of quality players to choose from, with plenty of rotation to be expected at the tournament.
Hopefully for England fans, Bellamy’s prediction will come true and the 60-year wait for a second star will finally be over.
From a Welsh, Scottish or Irish perspective, they will mostly hope the conditions are too much for England to handle.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
