England’s defender Kieran Trippier has suggested that Jude Bellingham may be the key player who can make a difference for the team in their upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy.
Bellingham has been in outstanding form since his summer transfer to Real Madrid, netting an impressive 10 goals in his initial 10 starts across all competitions for his new club.
“He can be the difference,” Trippier told reporters. “At such a young age, with the maturity, the quality and the aggression he’s got, he’s frightening. It’s not a surprise at all, given the standards that he’s set in Madrid.
“You can see he’s playing with freedom and the players around him are going to make him even better. The scary thing is he’s only 20 years old.”
Trippier added that the England side had made “massive steps” since the 2018 World Cup.
“We lost in the Euros final but the most important thing is we’re progressing and doing very well,” Trippier said.
“We’ve got goals from all over the pitch and Jude, Madders [James Maddison], Bukayo [Saka], and Phil [Foden] are still young but can all change games in certain moments.”
Trippier also defended teammate Jordan Henderson, who was booed by England fans during Friday’s 1-0 friendly win over Australia after joining Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq earlier this year.
“For us as players, we stick together,” Trippier said.
“I see Hendo on a daily basis. He is an unbelievable character; he’s a leader — what he does for the team, playing or not playing.
“He’s an unbelievable person to have in the dressing room. He makes sure everyone trains properly. He sets standards.”
England face Italy on Tuesday at Wembley.