Euro 2024: Wayne Rooney expresses worries about Jude Bellingham’s form for England, noting that the young player seems to be very frustrated.
Wayne Rooney, the former England international, has expressed concern over Jude Bellingham’s frustration during England’s recent matches at Euro 2024. The England team, managed by Gareth Southgate, has had a disappointing week in Germany, drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Criticism from pundits and supporters has been pouring in, with many pointing out the team’s lackluster performances.
Rooney specifically highlighted Real Madrid star Bellingham’s struggles. In an interview with the BBC’s Football Daily Podcast, Rooney stated, “Jude starts the first game well, but I’m sure he’d tell you himself he hasn’t had the best games in the last two games. For me, he’s looked very frustrated. I’ve been in the same position before, and even in yesterday’s game, you saw him throwing his arms up in the air.”
Rooney, who burst onto the international scene at Euro 2004, understands the pressure and frustration that comes with representing England. He expressed concern that Bellingham, who is the same age as Rooney was during the 2006 World Cup, could let his frustrations get the better of him if performances don’t improve quickly.
As an iconic player for both England and Real Madrid, Rooney also questioned Bellingham’s lack of vocal presence. He said, “As a talisman for England and Real Madrid, I haven’t heard him speak. What is the reason for that? As one of the iconic players now for England in the squad, he should be fronting that. That tells me that he’s probably not quite right in the tournament.”
Rooney, who scored 53 goals in 120 appearances for England, knows firsthand the consequences of letting frustrations boil over. He famously received a red card for a stamp on Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2006 World Cup quarter-finals against Portugal. Rooney hopes that Bellingham can avoid a similar fate and urged him to demand more from his teammates without letting it escalate to a point where he might pick up a needless red card.
In conclusion, Rooney’s concerns about Bellingham’s frustration and lack of vocal presence highlight the pressure and challenges faced by young players representing England at a major tournament. The former England striker hopes that Bellingham can channel his frustrations positively and avoid any disciplinary issues that could hinder his performance and the team’s progress in the tournament.