'Hard to read' Bellingham criticism - Henderson — Sport

Jordan Henderson has represented England at seven major tournaments.

Published 25 minutes ago

England's Jordan Henderson has admitted he finds it "hard to read" what is said about Jude Bellingham, though he believes the midfielder can serve as the team's "X-factor" during the World Cup.

One of the major topics of discussion ahead of England's tournament opener against Croatia on Wednesday (21:00 BST) has been whether Bellingham or Morgan Rogers will occupy the number 10 role in Thomas Tuchel's lineup.

The Real Madrid midfielder has recently come under scrutiny for some of his England displays, but has previously argued that he was made a "scapegoat" within the camp.

Henderson, speaking at England's training base in Kansas City, has backed the 22-year-old to make a "big impact" throughout the competition.

"I can remember six years ago, I gave him his first cap and how much he has grown as a player and person since then is incredible really," said Henderson.

"I had a good idea when I first saw him playing and training and the way he was. What he has done so far at such a young age, I think everybody forgets how young he is, even me sometimes."

Brentford midfielder Henderson, 35, has been selected in Tuchel's England squad for his leadership attributes, and the former Liverpool captain shares a close bond with Bellingham.

"I honestly couldn't speak highly enough of him." Henderson said.

"I know a lot gets written in the media, I find it hard to read sometimes really because I just know just how big an influence he is on this team, how good a team-mate he is off the field.

"What he gives us is just something really special. He really gives us an X-factor in our team. He has had big moments in his career, he is a big game player.

"He has got experience in tournaments. He is a huge huge player for us in this tournament."

Despite being among the youngest members of the England squad, Bellingham is also one of the most seasoned, having earned 48 caps and is set to take part in his third major tournament.

"If you ask any player in this group they will tell you how much of a good teammate he is, how well he trains," said Henderson.

"I know he is young but he also helps young players, new players that come in. How he was in the pre-camp with Rio [Ngumoha], Josh King, Alex Scott, Ethan [Nwaneri] - how he is with the players, nobody sees that."

Bellingham was filmed presenting 17-year-old Ngumoha with his England legacy cap and delivered a speech in the changing room after the Liverpool winger made his debut in the 1-0 friendly victory over New Zealand in England's first warm-up match.

"They all look up to him and he gave Rio [Ngumoha] his first cap which gives you a little insight to what he is like behind the scenes," Henderson said.

"I do think that a lot of the media and the stuff that gets written isn't all true to be honest, a lot of it is actually untrue.

"For us we know what he can do and we all love him inside the camp and I suppose that's the main thing."