Peter Crouch says Jude Bellingham silenced England critics at World Cup

Former Liverpool and England striker Peter Crouch explained how Jude Bellingham, the 16‑year‑old debutant turned £100 million Real Madrid signing, answered his critics after a brace against Mexico and a seven‑goal World Cup, where England secured third place after a semi‑final loss to Argentina.

Early rise and record transfer

Bellingham made his professional debut at 16 with Birmingham City before his teenage move to Real Madrid fetched a £100 million fee. The former Birmingham City midfielder’s confidence never seemed to waver despite the high price tag.

Thomas Tuchel omitted him from the October 2025 England squad, a decision that sparked criticism in certain tabloid outlets. Crouch believes that the scrutiny and the pressure of ending a six‑decade wait for a trophy sharpened Bellingham’s resolve.

Peter Crouch, who scored 22 goals in 42 England appearances, knows the value of confidence. He says there is “no better feeling” than the period when he felt he could score in every game.

World Cup heroics and critics' silence

During this summer’s World Cup, Bellingham netted seven goals as England finished third after the semi‑final defeat to Argentina. His most decisive moment came in the last‑16 win over Mexico, where he scored a brace.

“I was there – just being in the Azteca was magical for me, and if we’d lost 5‑0 I would still have been amazed,” Crouch recalled, adding that Bellingham’s two goals made earlier doubts look “ridiculous now”.

Crouch stresses that certain players thrive under pressure, describing Bellingham as one who flourishes in a “white‑hot atmosphere, that cauldron of pressure”. He likens the effect to his own surge of confidence at England level.

He also referenced playing with Steven Gerrard, who could win games single‑handedly, citing the FA Cup final against West Ham, the Istanbul final, and the clash with Olympiacos. Crouch argues that while England have relied on Harry Kane, Bellingham stepped up, helping the team win matches that might otherwise have been lost.