Micah Richards has strongly urged England manager Thomas Tuchel to start Jude Bellingham at the World Cup, labeling the Real Madrid star as the 'best player' in the squad. The debate over England's attacking midfield role has intensified, with Bellingham competing with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers for a starting spot.
Bellingham's pedigree
Bellingham, 22, was a standout performer at Euro 2024, most notably scoring a dramatic last-gasp overhead kick to rescue England from defeat against Slovakia. After a high-profile move from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid, he enjoyed a stunning debut season, winning both La Liga and the Champions League under Carlo Ancelotti. However, last season saw a dip in form and fitness, with Bellingham netting only six league goals – his lowest tally since 2021-22. Despite this, he showed signs of returning to his best in England's final World Cup warm-up match against Costa Rica.
Rogers' rise
Morgan Rogers, 23, has enjoyed another impressive campaign at Aston Villa, helping Unai Emery's side qualify for the Champions League and win the Europa League. His performances have made him a key figure in Tuchel's plans and attracted interest from Premier League giants Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea. Former England striker Alan Shearer stated he would pick Rogers over Bellingham, citing the Villa star's recent form and importance to the team.
Richards, however, disagrees strongly. 'In terms of big moments, Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid, Champions League winner – when England were down in other tournaments, he's been the guy. He's had the personality to step up in big moments,' Richards said. 'I understand the point about Morgan Rogers and I could potentially see both of them in the team at times. But as the main No. 10, there's no doubt for me that it should be Jude Bellingham. You've got to put Jude in the team. This is what frustrates me, we've got a genuine superstar in Jude Bellingham… it shouldn't even be a debate. He's the best player and he has to start. He's delivered, he's delivered at the highest level so he has to start.'
Lineker backs Richards
Former England captain Gary Lineker sided with Richards, stating: 'I would go with Micah on this one. Just because I think Jude is a genuine superstar, and to win World Cups, I think you need someone that's going to make a massive difference.'
Keane's doubts
England have been installed as one of the tournament favourites, but former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has expressed doubts about their chances. 'England have got a lot of good players. No doubt getting out of the group should be straightforward for them, you think they'll compete if everything falls into place. Do I see England winning the World Cup? Absolutely not,' Keane said. 'When I looked at the squad, and particularly defensively, I'm not convinced. I just don't see it come a crunch game in the quarter, the semi-finals, whether they're chasing the game or defending it. It's the centre halves that would be worrying me.'
Keane identified France as his favourites for the tournament, citing their depth of talent and experienced manager. 'Over the last few days, I've been open-minded about Brazil and Spain because both have tremendous quality, but if I had to choose one team I'd go with France. They have outstanding individual players throughout the squad. Of course, talent alone isn't enough. The manager still has to get everyone pulling in the same direction and working collectively. That's often the biggest challenge with top international teams. But I think France have one of the best managers when it comes to handling that balance, and because of their quality and experience I'd probably make them favourites.'
England, under former manager Sir Gareth Southgate, came close to ending their trophy drought, reaching back-to-back European Championship finals and deep runs in two World Cups. Now, with Tuchel at the helm, the debate over Bellingham vs. Rogers adds intrigue as the Three Lions aim to win their first World Cup in 60 years.
