Jordan Henderson defended Jude Bellingham as a central figure for England despite mixed opinions around the midfielder. Henderson described Bellingham as the "X-factor" for the team, highlighting his big tournament experience and maturity at just 22 years old. "I honestly couldn't speak highly enough of him. I know a lot gets written in the media, and I 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 and what he gives us is just something really special," Henderson said in a press conference on June 14 before England's World Cup group match versus Croatia in Dallas [1, 2].
Bellingham, who plays for Real Madrid, has risen rapidly to become one of England's leading players. Henderson added, "If you ask any player in the group, they'll tell you how much of a good teammate he is, how well he trains. I know he's young, but he's very mature in his head," underscoring Bellingham's reputation for intensity and professionalism despite his divisive public perception [1, 2].
Henderson, who will turn 36 on the day of the match, is in his fourth World Cup and was a controversial squad selection by coach Thomas Tuchel this year. He acknowledged his different role but stressed his enjoyment and focus on supporting the team. "To be myself, regardless how much I'm playing, whether I'm playing every game, whether I'm not playing as much, just to be myself and enjoy being back in the squad," he said [1, 2].
England's Croatian opponents feature 40-year-old Luka Modric, who is playing in his fifth World Cup. Henderson called Modric "a top world-class player, so hard to play against," acknowledging the veteran's enduring quality [1, 2].
England and Croatia kick off their group match today in Dallas, marking one of the tournament's opening fixtures [1, 2].