World Cup 2026 news: Gary Neville says Jude Bellingham debate is over after England victory

Jude Bellingham delivered another influential performance for England as the Three Lions opened their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia on Wednesday.

The midfielder was among England's standout performers and capped his display with a goal as Thomas Tuchel's side secured an important three points.

Following the match, former England defender Gary Neville suggested Bellingham's performance should end any debate surrounding his place in the starting line-up.

Neville backs Bellingham's importance

Questions have often been raised about England's midfield balance and how best to accommodate the country's wealth of attacking talent.

For Neville, however, Bellingham's quality makes him an automatic selection.

"The Jude Bellingham argument is over with," Neville said, per Sky Sports.

"We can't be disrespectful to Morgan Rogers because he's a brilliant player. But Jude Bellingham is the top player."

Neville believes Bellingham's partnership with captain Harry Kane gives England a crucial advantage.

"He and Kane in attack are the difference," he said.

Midfield battle proves decisive

While Bellingham grabbed headlines with another impressive display, Neville also praised England's approach without the ball.

Croatia entered the tournament boasting one of the most experienced midfields in international football, led once again by Luka Modric.

England, however, limited the veteran playmaker's influence throughout large periods of the contest.

"We didn't let Modric dictate the game," Neville said.

"In the past, England players would've stood off players like that."

The former Manchester United defender singled out Elliot Anderson for particular praise.

"These lads didn't today. Anderson in particular targeted him with the press."

Tuchel pleased with England response

England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that his side struggled during parts of the first half before improving significantly after the break.

"I loved the second half," Tuchel said.

"We encouraged them to go for it, to play with more courage, be brave and be ourselves."

England responded by creating a host of opportunities and eventually pulled away from Croatia in the latter stages.

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Bellingham central to England hopes

At just 23 years old, Bellingham has already established himself as one of the most important figures in England's squad.

His ability to contribute in both midfield and attacking areas was once again evident against Croatia.

With tougher tests likely to come later in the tournament, England will continue to rely heavily on the Real Madrid star.

If Neville's assessment is correct, the debate surrounding Bellingham's role may now be settled.

For England, that can only be good news as their World Cup campaign gathers momentum.

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