Jude Bellingham has hit out at “some of the rubbish that was said” about Jordan Henderson starting for England at the 2022 World Cup and has called on fans to show the Liverpool midfielder “a bit of respect”.
Henderson, 32, was something of a surprise starter for England in the 3-0 victory over Wales and he kept his place in Gareth Southgate’s starting XI for the game against Senegal.
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Henderson rewarded Southgate’s faith as he produced a fine display in the middle of the pitch alongside Bellingham, opening the scoring in another confident 3-0 win.
And, after the match, Bellingham sought out the Liverpool captain for praise.
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“The (first) goal was really well-worked,” he said. “(Henderson) had a brilliant performance today. I see some of the rubbish that was said about him playing. Honestly, it’s ridiculous.
“He’s so underrated technically, and he’s delivered again in a big game with a massive goal, so I think it’s time he gets a bit of respect.”
Put some respect on his name.🤝🏽 @JHenderson pic.twitter.com/XKe2uWAuIf
— Jude Bellingham (@BellinghamJude) December 4, 2022
Bellingham also had an outstanding game for England — and was afterwards tipped to become “the best midfielder in the world” by his international team-mate Phil Foden — with the Dortmund player happy with his side’s display.
“The first 35 minutes were tough,” he added. “They were really compact, high-energy, athletic.
“They got in a few times down the sides, and it was one of those games when we needed to get the first goal. We knew when we did we’d be in a good position.”
England and France will clash next Saturday at the Al Bayt Stadium, in the third of the four quarter-final matches.
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(Photo: Getty Images)
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