Bellingham’s interrupted England career, through shoulder and hamstring injuries as well being left out of the squad by Tuchel, is reflected in the statistic that he has only made nine starts in the 20 games they have played since the Euro 24 final.
Since arriving in the United States following a mixed season at Real Madrid, Bellingham has looked fit, fired up and – significantly – integrated in Tuchel’s squad as they aim to end a barren sequence for the men’s team stretching back to the 1966 World Cup.
Bellingham was seen in England’s dressing room presenting Liverpool’s 17-year-old Rio Ngumoah with his first cap following his debut against New Zealand in Tampa, a sign of seniority even though he is still only 23.
So are the cards falling into place for the player mentor Jordan Henderson, who took Bellingham under his wing when he came into the England squad in 2020, believes will give Tuchel’s team the vital “X Factor” at the World Cup?
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, who will be BBC Radio Five Live’s analyst at their games, said: “From what we’ve seen out here and from what we’ve heard from the camp and his team-mates, stuff from behind the scenes, England are getting the Jude Bellingham of old back for the World Cup. He looks as fit and focused as he has for a long time.
“I’d pick him to start. 100%. Morgan Rogers doesn’t deserve to lose his place but Bellingham is a big-game player. I’m not saying Rogers isn’t, but Bellingham has experience at World Cups and Euros and playing in big tournaments for Real Madrid. He’s won the Champions League.”
Robinson added: “He just has that something others don’t have. If his attitude and application is right, you play him. If you get him onside, fit and functioning from day one, that will be a massive factor in this tournament for England.
“Tuchel has made big calls with him, and the relationship between Jude and the coach has been brought into question, but look at Bellingham’s experience. He has got 37 competitive caps. This counts for a lot in a major tournament.”
Bellingham currently has 48 caps and is poised to play in his third major tournament.
Tuchel’s approach with Bellingham may just have got this naturally-gifted player with a fierce competitive edge coming to the boil at the perfect time.
“Thomas Tuchel was brought in to do one job,” says Robinson. “I know he’s extended his contract, but his mission is to win the World Cup, regardless of how he does it. And he clearly doesn’t mind who he upsets along the way.
“Tuchel is not picking players because they have a certain name or reputation. Bellingham has had to earn his place.
