BELLINGHAM IS ENGLAND'S 'EDGE'

In this series, The Straits Times highlights the players or teams to watch in the world of sport. Today, we focus on Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham, who has been recalled to the England squad following injury.

- Andy Ng Correspondent

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has three goals and an assist in his last five matches for Real Madrid after missing the start of the season following shoulder surgery. He will be hoping to continue that form for England. PHOTO: REUTERS

(REUTERS)

As England prepare for their final 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Serbia on Nov 13 at Wembley and Albania on Nov 16 in Tirana, Jude Bellingham has a point to prove after being dropped from the squad in October.

The Three Lions have already secured top spot in Group K with six wins from six matches, boasting an impeccable 18-0 aggregate scoreline that underscores their dominance under manager Thomas Tuchel.

With qualification sealed, these dead-rubber fixtures offer a vital testing ground for next summer’s tournament in North America.

At the heart of the intrigue is Bellingham, the 22-year-old Real Madrid midfielder whose recent return from a serious shoulder injury is a major talking point. His reintegration is not just a squad boost — it is a tactical and psychological jolt that could sharpen England’s edge for the World Cup.

Bellingham’s journey back to full fitness has been a saga of resilience amid chronic pain.

The issue traces back to November 2023, when he dislocated his left shoulder in a La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano during his debut season at Real.

Opting to play through the discomfort — donning a bulky brace and strapping for over 100 appearances he powered through to help Los Blancos claim the La Liga and Champions League titles, while also starring in England’s Euro 2024 final run.

But the toll mounted eventually.