Roy Keane has tipped Jude Bellingham to become one of the greatest players in football history following the midfielder’s dominant display in England’s 7-0 victory over Croatia in Rijeka. The Real Madrid star recorded one goal and three assists in the Nations League match, marking the first time an England midfielder has managed four goal involvements in a single fixture since David Platt accomplished the feat against San Marino in February 1993.
Keane Rates Bellingham Among All-Time Greats
Speaking on ITV, Roy Keane praised the 23-year-old midfielder’s all-around impact after England dismantled Croatia, a team that has served as a major international rival over the past decade. The victory stands as Croatia’s heaviest defeat in international competition.
“Ranked 13th in the world, they made them look like a Gibraltar kind of team. Outstanding in every aspect, and I think Bellingham can go on to become one of the greatest of all time,” Keane said on ITV, adding the caveat: “As long as he gets no injuries and he keeps the head.”
Keane specifically highlighted Bellingham’s defensive work rate alongside his technical ability in possession. “Again his attitude with England recently, I’ve been praising him a lot for being fantastic in possession, but what he’s doing out of possession, that lifts all these other players,” Keane noted.
Did you know? Jude Bellingham’s four-goal involvement match against Croatia makes him the first England midfielder to reach that milestone in a single game since David Platt’s 1993 performance against San Marino.
Saka And Teammates Praise Midfield Leadership
Bukayo Saka, who scored two goals during the rout in Rijeka with his first strike set up by Bellingham, echoed Keane’s assessment of the Real Madrid player’s influence on the squad.
“He was amazing tonight to be fair,” Saka said. “He deserved [England] player of the year and he probably deserves man of the match tonight as well.”
Saka added: “He was special. Happy to play with him and happy to have him in the England team.”
England takes commanding group lead before Czech Republic match
The emphatic 7-0 win places England in a commanding position within their Nations League group. The Three Lions return to action for their final match of the international break at home against the Czech Republic on October 6.
Frequently Asked Questions About England Versus Croatia
What was the final score of the England and Croatia match?
England defeated Croatia 7-0 in the fixture played in Rijeka, marking Croatia’s heaviest ever defeat in international football.
How many goal involvements did Jude Bellingham record?
Jude Bellingham contributed four goal involvements during the match, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
When do England play their next match?
England’s final match of the international break takes place at home against the Czech Republic on October 6.
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