Keane tips Bellingham for all-time greatness after England's 7-0 rout of Croatia

Jude Bellingham delivered a commanding performance as England dismantled Croatia 7-0 — the Croatians’ heaviest-ever defeat — in a World Cup 2026 qualifier, with Roy Keane declaring the 23-year-old Real Madrid midfielder has the potential to become one of the greatest players of all time.

Bellingham scored once and provided three assists on the night, setting up Harry Kane for the opener before teeing up Bukayo Saka to make it four just before half-time and then finding Morgan Rogers for England’s seventh. Kane finished with two goals, Saka also netted twice, and Anthony Gordon and Rogers completed the scoring for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

Keane was effusive in his assessment of the Birmingham City academy graduate. “The way he’s progressing as a player, there’s so much to come,” the former Manchester United captain said. “At this moment in time, he’s an amazing footballer — the package, the power. His leadership skills, his hunger and desire out of possession, his desire to get into the box, he’s making it so easy.”

Keane continued: “I think Bellingham can go on to be one of the greatest players of all time. Of course, if he avoids injuries — but his attitude with England recently, what he’s doing out of possession lifts the players in the team. Playing for Real Madrid and doing brilliant things, that will inspire the players. He’s a huge leader for them.”

Bukayo Saka echoed that praise in his post-match interview. “He was amazing tonight to be fair,” the Arsenal winger said. “He deserved England player of the year and he probably deserves man of the match tonight as well. He was special. Happy to play with him and happy to have him in the England team.”

The result continues England’s strong form under Tuchel, following a win over Czechia earlier in the week. Bellingham has been central to the team’s momentum, having already shouldered significant responsibility during the run to the Euro 2024 final and through the subsequent World Cup qualifying campaign.