Former Watford striker and current CBS analyst Troy Deeney has lavished praise on England midfielder Jude Bellingham, highlighting the 22-year-old’s tenacity, leadership, and impact at the 2026 World Cup. Despite expressing some reservations about England’s overall team performance, Deeney singled out Bellingham as a standout figure whose playing style and character resonate closely with his own.

Speaking on a recent football program, Deeney noted that Bellingham thrives on intensity and pressure, often drawing energy from the crowd to lift both himself and his teammates. He recalled Bellingham’s role during the Euros, where the midfielder was seen actively rallying supporters, effectively orchestrating the atmosphere in England’s favor. According to Deeney, Bellingham has been the best player of the tournament, not only for England but across all teams.

Deeney also drew comparisons between Bellingham and former England star Paul Gascoigne, particularly in how both players approach the game with aggression and edge. He described Bellingham’s style as operating “right on the edge,” suggesting the midfielder embraces the risk of physical challenges without reckless abandon. “You don’t want him getting sent off — but then he plays right on the edge,” Deeney said, emphasizing the balance of skill and controlled aggression.

Acknowledging criticisms voiced in media debates over Bellingham’s form at Real Madrid, where he currently plays, Deeney dismissed doubts about his quality and asserted that any discussion of his inclusion over other players, such as Morgan Rogers, is no longer relevant. He highlighted that Bellingham’s emotional drive stems from playing with a “chip on his shoulder,” an attribute that fuels his competitive fire.

Deeney elaborated on the challenges that come with early success in football, pointing out that Bellingham has already achieved key milestones by age 22, including playing for his hometown team, competing in Germany, and starring for one of the world’s biggest clubs. With many of his career goals met, Deeney suggested that Bellingham—like many top athletes—needs to manufacture motivation and pressure to maintain intensity. He compared this process to his own experiences at Watford, where perceived slights or challenges from teammates and club management sparked personal determination.

“The thing with Jude is he’s probably a bit more emotionally controlled than me, though,” Deeney added, praising his younger compatriot’s maturity. He concluded that England’s progress in the tournament will depend heavily on how far Bellingham can lead the team, emphasizing the midfielder’s central role in their hopes.