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England’s Jordan Henderson says it is “difficult to read” what has been written about Judd Bellingham, but believes the midfielder can be his team’s “X-factor” at the World Cup.
One of the big talking points ahead of England’s opening match against Croatia on Wednesday (21:00 BST) is whether Bellingham or Morgan Rodgers will start at number 10 in Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
The Real Madrid midfielder has faced criticism for some of his recent performances in England, but he has previously said that it has been done. “Scape Goat” In the camp.
And Henderson, speaking at England’s training base in Kansas City, backed the 22-year-old to have a big impact on the tournament.
“I remember six years ago, I gave him my first cap and it’s amazing how much he’s grown as a player and as a person since then,” Henderson said.
“When I saw him play and practice, I had a good idea and the way he lived. What he’s done at such a young age, I think everyone forgets how young he is, including me sometimes.”
Brentford midfielder Henderson, 35, was included in Tuchel’s England squad because of his leadership qualities and the former Liverpool captain has close links with Bellingham.
“I honestly couldn’t speak highly enough of him.” Henderson said.
“I know a lot is written in the media, sometimes it’s hard to read because I know how much influence he has on this team, how good his teammate is off the field.
“He just gives us something special. He gives us the X-factor in our team, he’s had big moments in his career, he’s a big game player.
“He’s got experience in tournaments. He’s a big player for us in this tournament.”
Bellingham, despite being one of the youngest players in the England squad, is one of the most experienced players with 48 caps to his name and is set to make his third major tournament.
“If you ask any player on this team, they’ll tell you how good of a teammate he is, how well he practices,” Henderson said.
“I know he’s young but he helps young players, new players to come in. How he was in pre-camp with Rio (Ngumoha), Josh King, Alex Scott, Ethan (Nwaneri) – how he is with the players, no one sees.”
Bellingham was filmed as 17-year-old Ngumoha was presented with the England Heritage Cap and the Liverpool winger made his England debut in a 1-0 friendly win over New Zealand in the changing room.
“Everyone looks up to him and he gave Rio (Ngumoha) his first cap which gives you a little insight into what it’s like behind the scenes,” Henderson said.
“I think a lot of the media and the things that are written are not all true to be honest, a lot of them are actually not true.
“We know what he can do for us and we all love him in the camp and I think that’s the main thing.”
