Alex Scott says he has “never seen anything like” Jude Bellingham’s performances for England in the Nations League, describing the midfielder as “the best midfielder in the world”.
Bellingham was one of England’s leading players at the World Cup, scoring seven goals – more than any other Three Lions player – and providing one assist.
He has continued that form in the Nations League, impressing in each of England’s opening three matches. His most influential display came in the 7-0 victory over Croatia, when he scored once and supplied three assists.
It was the first time Bellingham had been directly involved in more than two goals in an England match. He also became the first player to register three assists for the national team since Trent Alexander-Arnold did so against San Marino in November 2021.
Scott made his first England start in the Croatia match and shared the pitch with Bellingham as he produced a performance that drew widespread praise.
“Honestly, I’ve never seen anything like it,” Scott said.
“He’s even better in person, seeing it up close and being on the same pitch as him. He’s the best midfielder in the world, one of the best players in the world for sure and a great human being.
“Everyone knows that – the fans know that; everyone in the world knows what he’s like as a person.
“On the pitch, his ability is scary, and that’s the benchmark we need to live up to.
“I’m the same age as him, but for me, he’s a role model figure for young English players.”
Scott also impressed on his first international start, operating in midfield alongside Elliot Anderson before being replaced after 70 minutes.
England manager Thomas Tuchel praised the 23-year-old for his performance and said Scott could compete with Declan Rice for a place in the starting line-up in future.
However, Scott will miss England’s final match of the international break against Czechia after withdrawing from the squad with a thigh injury.
He is reported to have felt the problem before the Croatia match, while media reports suggest the quadriceps injury could keep him out for six to eight weeks.
Tuchel will also be without Ezri Konsa, who has returned to his club early to receive treatment for an injury.
England are second in Group A3, three points behind leaders Spain, before their meeting with Czechia.
The Three Lions have never lost to Czechia in eight matches at Wembley Stadium, winning six and drawing two. Their most recent meeting at the ground came in the Euro 2020 group stage, when England secured a 1-0 victory.
