Alan Shearer has issued a blunt message to Jude Bellingham, stating that the Real Madrid star must earn his place in the England starting lineup as Morgan Rogers is currently ahead of him. The Three Lions have commenced their World Cup preparations at a training camp in Florida, with manager Thomas Tuchel facing difficult selection decisions.
Bellingham's Position Under Scrutiny
Bellingham has been assigned the No. 10 shirt in the squad list submitted to FIFA, potentially indicating he is ahead of Rogers in Tuchel's plans. However, Rogers enjoyed a stellar season with Aston Villa, contributing 14 goals and 12 assists in 55 appearances across all competitions, playing a key role in Villa's Europa League triumph. In contrast, Bellingham managed only eight goals and five assists in a challenging campaign for Real Madrid, who failed to secure any silverware.
Shearer's Verdict
Speaking to The Sun, Shearer expressed his belief that Tuchel should reward Rogers' form. "At the minute, Rogers has maybe just edged it," Shearer said. "Bellingham has had one or two injury problems, and Rogers has been able to go in there and do very well. So I'd think it'll be him that will start." Shearer praised Rogers as a "really, really talented guy" who has earned the right to feature in a World Cup.
Shearer acknowledged that the starting XI for the first match will not be the same throughout the tournament, adding that Tuchel is adept at handling big players being left out. "What's certainly changed from when I was in the World Cup in 1998 is that it's not going to be that same XI that starts. It's going to be a full squad that plays," he noted.
Upcoming Fixtures
England will face New Zealand in a friendly in Florida this weekend before their World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17. Tuchel is still awaiting the arrival of four Arsenal players and Crystal Palace's Dean Henderson, who were delayed due to their involvement in European finals.
