England midfielder Jordan Henderson is tired of watching his younger teammate Jude Bellingham take unfair hits in the media. Speaking ahead of England’s World Cup opener, the 35-year-old veteran went on the record to defend Bellingham against what he called a flood of misinformation regarding the 22-year-old’s attitude.
Thomas Tuchel, England’s manager, was among those who publicly questioned Bellingham’s demeanor earlier in the cycle, though he later apologized. That apology hasn’t stopped the noise. Henderson, who has shared a midfield with Bellingham for club and country, is having none of it.
“I honestly couldn’t speak highly enough of him,” Henderson said. “I know a lot gets written in the media, and I really find it hard to read sometimes. Because I just know how big an influence he is on this team. How good a teammate he is off the field.”
The criticism has felt particularly loud given Bellingham’s age and resume. At 22, he’s already delivered for both Real Madrid and England on the biggest stages. But style and body language have become recurring talking points. Henderson wants that narrative reset.
More Than a Stat Sheet
Henderson didn’t just praise Bellingham’s talent. He leaned into the unseen side of the young star. According to Henderson, Bellingham is one of the first to help new players settle into the squad. He pointed specifically to how Bellingham treated Rio, Josh King, and Alex Scott during pre-camp.
“Nobody sees that, but they all look up to him,” Henderson said. “He gave Rio his first captain after the game, which just gives you a little insight into what he is like behind the scenes.”
That gesture—handing the captain’s armband to a newcomer—became a quiet symbol inside the camp. For Henderson, it’s the kind of moment no camera captures but every player notices.
“So I do think 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,” Henderson added. “But for us, we all know what he can do and how much we all love him inside the camp. I suppose that’s the main thing.”
World Cup Role Solidifies
Bellingham’s spot in the starting XI was initially under question during World Cup preparations, but strong showings in warm-up matches have all but locked him into the lineup for England’s opener against Croatia.
“What he gives us is just something really special,” Henderson said. “I think he really gives us the X Factor in our team. He’s had big moments in his career. He’s a big game player. He’s got experience in tournaments. I’m sure he will have a big impact for us in this tournament.”
Henderson also reminded everyone that Bellingham is still growing into his prime. At 22, he’s already headlined games in La Liga and Champions League knockout rounds. The veteran midfielder summed it up simply: “What he’s done so far at such a young age … I think everybody forgets how young he is, even me.”
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