Bellingham scores and admits 'chip on shoulder' as England stun Croatia 4-2 in World Cup opener

Jude Bellingham silenced doubters about his place in England’s starting XI by scoring in a commanding 4-2 victory over Croatia in their World Cup Group Stage opener in Dallas, admitting afterwards that he had played with “a chip on my shoulder” to prove his worth.

Bellingham’s position had been under genuine scrutiny heading into the tournament, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers named as his direct competition for the number ten role. Thomas Tuchel confirmed the Real Madrid midfielder was not a guaranteed starter, but gave him the nod against Croatia — and Bellingham repaid that faith with a goal and an influential second-half display.

England were unconvincing in the first half but transformed after the break, eventually blowing Croatia away. Bellingham’s third goal of the game came from a precise pass by Elliot Anderson, which he converted inside the box. “It was a good pass from Elliot. It put me in a good position and took it into the box. It was a pretty normal goal except the pass was top level,” Bellingham said.

Speaking to BBC Sport after the final whistle, Bellingham addressed the debate over his starting spot directly. “For me personally it was nice to put some of the noise aside and just show my country and my teammates how committed I am to helping us try and win football matches,” he said. “Regardless of the noise outside, that honour doesn’t change for me.”

On whether the external criticism had sharpened his focus, Bellingham was candid. “A little bit — I think I have a little bit of a chip on the shoulder. I think that helps me a lot. To find that focus early in the game, to find that intensity. I know it’s part of being a footballer; I don’t hold a grudge against anyone who says bad things about me because sometimes I do deserve it. Today it was nice to remind people and show people what I’m about.”

Tuchel, who had previously praised Bellingham’s “X-Factor” ability alongside captain Jordan Henderson in the build-up to the match, was measured but pointed in his assessment after the win. “A very good player, he deserved to start, and that’s what he needs to do to fight for his place,” the England head coach said.

Bellingham also acknowledged what he described as a tougher recent season at club level, but insisted he arrived at the tournament in good physical condition. “I feel fresh, I feel sharp, strong and ready to give everything that I have,” he said. England will look to build on the opening victory as their World Cup campaign continues.