Bellingham couldn’t believe what he was hearing
Jude Bellingham burst into a fit of laughter after Gianfranco Zola made a hilarious comparison between himself and the Real Madrid star.
Bellingham delivered another man-of-the-match display as England came from a goal behind to beat Italy 3-1 and confirm their qualification for Euro 2024.
The 20-year-old has been in exceptional form since making the move to the Spanish capital, scoring 10 goals in 10 appearances in all competitions, started the comeback at Wembley as he won the penalty that Harry Kane converted to make it 1-1.
He was then involved once again as he set up Marcus Rashford after a brilliant run from the former Birmingham City star enabled the Manchester United star to cut inside and fire past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Kane then made certain of the win with an excellent solo run before composing himself and stroking the ball past Donnarumma.
After the game, Bellingham spoke to Channel 4 and was questioned about his display. Zola himself chipped in and his comparisons left Bellingham in hysterics.
“I have to say, it makes me laugh. At 20-years-old, I was still drinking milk from my mum!” the former Chelsea star said.
His comments left all of the punditry team laughing away before Zola chimed in again, saying: “Jude, let me ask you… Where were you when I was at Birmingham? I would have played you when you were 12-years-old!”
Once they had all regained their composure, Zola heaped praise on the midfielder.
“When England were 1-0 down, he was resilient,” Zola added.
“He was always looking for something to happen. He created the penalty, he created the assist. His qualities are rare in certain players. I am very impressed. The way he speaks is one thing.
“The things he says are always very balanced and very calm. He said he is loving his football, he is loving learning, these are the things you want to hear from young players with talent.
“It’s the kind of mentality they need to have. I haven’t seen many 20-year-olds with his personality. He is so grounded with clear ideas.”
Related links:
- England’s Jude Bellingham applies for Irish passport at request of Real Madrid
- Quiz: Name the England starting XI vs Italy at Euro 2012
- Real Madrid send scouts to watch Jobe Bellingham
