Bellingham Should Be More Appreciated by Tuchel

In his latest World Cup diary entry, Henry Winter highlighted the significance of England's Jude Bellingham as he celebrated his 23rd birthday on June 29, 2026. Reflecting on his extensive career covering England players, Winter placed Bellingham among his top ten after 35 years on the beat, mentioning legendary players such as Paul Gascoigne and Wayne Rooney. Winter argued that Bellingham possesses the potential to surpass even Ashley Cole, seen as the most effective player at elite levels, due to his exceptional skills and mentality.

Despite his world-class status, Winter believed Bellingham deserves more appreciation from England's head coach, Thomas Tuchel, as well as from critics. His popularity among fans was evident at MetLife Stadium, where they expressed their admiration with the unique chant "Juuuude" drawn from the classic song "Hey Jude." With other players lacking similar fanfare, Bellingham stood out, earning acclaim for his energy and performance on the pitch.

Winter remarked that Tuchel appears to be adopting a tough-love approach with Bellingham, often refraining from praise in hopes of cultivating team spirit. However, such an approach may backfire; Winter noted that Bellingham, who is already driven and team-focused, needs encouragement rather than criticism. The coach’s recent comment about Bellingham’s on-field temperament being "repulsive" struck a wrong chord with supporters, who view the young star as crucial to England's success.

Bellingham showcased his versatility against Panama, excelling in various roles, from attacking midfielder to supporting striker, demonstrating that he can score while also creating opportunities for teammates like Kane. Drawing a parallel with Duncan Edwards, Winter emphasized Bellingham's authority and physical presence on the field, characterizing him as pivotal in crucial matches, referencing his impressive performances in previous tournaments.

As Winter prepared to return to the UK, he noted the local dissatisfaction with MetLife Stadium's suitability for the World Cup final, emphasizing the need for improved accessibility and affordability for fans traveling to the venue. Despite the challenges, the enthusiasm among fans remained high, and Winter remarked on the growing American interest in England’s team during this World Cup.

With such a talented player like Bellingham in the lineup, England stands a strong chance of overcoming DR Congo in their next match on July 1, 2026.