By Sohaib Shams
England manager Thomas Tuchel has handed a first senior call-up to midfielder Jobe Bellingham, citing the 21-year-old’s outstanding form for both club and country as the primary reason for his inclusion.
Rapid rise through the ranks
Bellingham, who captains the England Under-21 side, impressed in a 4-2 comeback win over Kazakhstan in September, prompting U21 manager Lee Carsley to praise his physical development and technical progress. Tuchel said Carsley had spoken “very, very highly” of the player, noting his regular starting role at Borussia Dortmund this season.
Forging his own path
The younger brother of Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, Jobe has followed a similar trajectory from Birmingham City to Dortmund, but insists he is not motivated by comparisons. He wears his first name on his shirt to distinguish himself and describes himself as a more low-key figure who wants to be “one of the highest performing players” rather than a superstar off the pitch.
Squad for Nations League fixtures
Both Bellingham brothers are named in the 25-man group for England’s upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia at Wembley on Thursday and Spain in Madrid on Sunday. England have virtually qualified for the quarter-finals in March but are aiming to win Group A3.
