The truth has finally emerged. During a recent appearance on the Lions’ Den sofa, Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers engaged in a candid discussion about England’s Euro 2024 experience, revealing surprising insights. The setting, controlled by the Football Association, provided an unexpected platform for Bellingham to share his thoughts openly.
“It didn’t feel like there was any kind of hierarchy,” the 22-year-old midfielder stated. “I think at the Euros we got some things a little bit wrong off the pitch. I don’t feel like the group connected as well as it could have – for a number of reasons.”
While it was no shock to learn there were problems within the squad two years ago, Bellingham’s willingness to address these issues ahead of England’s World Cup campaign carries weight.
“We weren’t playing particularly well, which doesn’t help,” he continued. “Even when we were winning we didn’t get the feeling that we were as happy as we should be. You want to win, but the nature of football is that wins go out of the system very quickly.”
The team struggled to maintain a positive atmosphere. England’s lack of connection was evident, especially during their preparations for Germany, highlighted by Gareth Southgate needing to explain his squad selections to Harry Kane during a stroll around Tottenham’s training facility.
To describe Southgate’s choices as generous would be an understatement. A more fitting critique would be that he lost track of his managerial identity. After emphasizing the importance of fostering a strong team culture, he shocked many by selecting a number of inexperienced players while leaving out veterans like Harry Maguire, Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, and notably, Jordan Henderson.
England struggled to function effectively without Henderson’s guiding presence. Their efforts fell short, culminating in a defeat against Spain in the final. Although Bellingham showcased flashes of brilliance, moments of immaturity also surfaced. He seemed to be a young player in need of a mentor, and Henderson, known for his protective nature towards Bellingham, was sorely missed. It was no surprise that Kane felt relieved when Thomas Tuchel, upon taking over as head coach, decided to reinstate the former Liverpool captain.
Tuchel dedicated significant time to understand why England lacked a clear identity. His conclusion was that having Henderson in the squad would greatly enhance the off-pitch atmosphere, making it easier to uphold high standards within the dressing room.
As Henderson approaches his 36th birthday ahead of England’s opener against Croatia on Wednesday, he finds himself in a different role. Although he may not start and has lost some pace, there are criticisms suggesting he is merely in the U.S. to provide support for Bellingham. Many fans believed his international career should have ended following his move to the Saudi Pro League in 2023.
Such opinions persist. Why not look to the future with younger players like Adam Wharton? The answer lies in the immense respect Henderson commands among his teammates. Tuchel has analyzed the group’s dynamics and emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of brotherhood. He has observed that players thrive when Henderson is part of the team.
Bellingham and Rogers praised Henderson during their Lions’ Den segment, calling him the best person they have encountered in football. They highlighted his contributions behind the scenes, emphasizing that Henderson is the team’s glue. His authority was evident during a 25-minute media session at England’s training base in Kansas City on Monday.
He defended Bellingham, asserting that public perceptions of the young player’s character are misguided. Henderson also praised Declan Rice, now appointed as England’s vice-captain. “It’s important to make sure the culture off the pitch is good but that’s not down to one person,” he remarked. “Everyone has a role to play. It’s creating a culture to keep driving each other forward.”
Henderson brought intensity to England’s behind-closed-doors friendly against Miami FC last Thursday. Just a day prior, he observed from the sidelines as Tuchel’s squad convincingly defeated Costa Rica in Tampa. “When I look back at pre-tournament games, that is the very best I’ve seen,” he stated. “It’s about taking that into Croatia.”
Tuchel emphasized that pressing is fundamental to England’s identity. Bellingham, selected over Rogers for the No. 10 role, excelled without the ball and proved pivotal in an impressive performance, appearing much improved compared to his Euro 2024 showing.
England understands that tournament success often hinges on maintaining a positive atmosphere within the squad. Tuchel has prioritized character in his selections, opting for players eager to compete. His decision to omit Maguire appeared wise, especially after the defender voiced his disappointment about not being chosen on social media. Henderson likely resents being perceived as merely a cheerleader; he believes he can still make a difference on the pitch, even if it means coming off the bench to aid in game management.
Nevertheless, it’s clear that Henderson’s leadership behind the scenes will be invaluable. Southgate underestimated him, initially supporting Henderson after his move to Saudi Arabia. However, just before the Euros, he reconsidered, believing Henderson no longer met the fitness standards for selection.
Southgate overlooked the importance of Henderson’s character. Listening to Bellingham, it becomes evident why Tuchel has not made the same error.
