Roy Keane believes Jude Bellingham can become one of the greatest players in football history after the England midfielder produced a stunning display in the 7-0 demolition of Croatia.
Bellingham scored once and provided three assists in Rijeka as Thomas Tuchel’s side recorded one of their most emphatic victories of the Nations League campaign.
Keane was particularly impressed by the 23-year-old’s contribution away from the ball, arguing that his work rate and attitude are beginning to have a wider influence on England’s performances.
On course for one of the greats
“There’s still a lot more to come from [Bellingham],” Keane said on ITV.
“Bellingham can go on to become one of the greatest players of all time.”
The former Manchester United captain has previously praised Bellingham’s ability in possession but believes the midfielder’s defensive contribution is becoming just as important to his development as an England player.
“His attitude for England recently… I have been praising him for being fantastic in possession, but what he is doing out of possession, that lifts all these players,” Keane added.
“If you have a player who is that good in your team, who is amazing in possession and is playing for Real Madrid and doing brilliant things, but his work rate off the ball, that will inspire all the other players.”
England’s linchpin
Bellingham’s performance was central to an England display in which Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka also scored twice, while Anthony Gordon and Morgan Rogers completed the rout.
The Real Madrid midfielder has also emerged as an increasingly influential figure for Tuchel’s side, with Keane describing him as a “huge leader” for England.
Bellingham’s four goal involvements against Croatia were the most by an England midfielder in a single match since David Platt recorded four against San Marino in 1993.
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