ROY KEANE gushed over Jude Bellingham after his sensational performance in England’s 6-2 win over Iran at the World Cup.
The 19-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder produced a breathtaking display for the Three Lions in their opening game in Qatar.
He pulled the strings throughout the match and even helped himself to the first goal with an expertly guided header.
And Keane, who was one of the best midfielders of his own generation, is blown away by Bellingham’s talent.
When asked on ITV4 how good the teenager could end up becoming, he said: “Absolutely amazing. I think he’s brilliant now, absolutely brilliant.
“He’s made a point there about adding more goals to his game at international level – he does score at club level.
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“He plays with a maturity, he’s got everything you want in a midfielder in the middle of the park in terms of his physique, his maturity, his decision-making, his skill.
“This finish here [his goal against Iran] is fantastic. You remember all the brilliant England midfielders over the years – people like Bryan Robson, Scholesy, Lampard, Gerrard – if you can add that to your game, that final bit of having goals… as I said he’s a brilliant player anyway.
“His interviews afterwards, he comes across as very, very mature. The kid’s got everything.”
Bellingham could well play in a deeper role as the tournament goes on, particularly if Gareth Southgate opts to switch to a back three.
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But against Iran he was given licence to go forward and join Mason Mount in attack as Declan Rice played as the only sitter.
And Keane does not feel Bellingham should be pigeon-holed into one sort of role because he is such a versatile midfielder.
When discussing him being a complete player, Keane added: “He’s one of them. He goes back to a few years ago when you talk about midfielders when you’re suppose to do a bit of everything.
“You’re supposed to help you’re back four. You’re supposed to be able to see a pass, you’re supposed to be able to pass it forward, you should have a goal in you.
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“And on top of that, the real bonus is, he comes across as a really decent kid which you’ve got to give him credit for, and his family obviously.”
Next up for Bellingham and England is a clash with USA on Friday, before they take on Wales in their final group game four days later.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
