World Cup 2026: ‘He delivers at highest level’ – Micah Richards names England’s best player

Former Premier League star Micah Richards has urged England manager Thomas Tuchel to name Jude Bellingham in the starting XI for the World Cup, calling the Real Madrid midfielder the “best player” in the Three Lions squad.

Bellingham is competing with Morgan Rogers for a starting spot as England aims to win its first World Cup in 60 years.

The Real Madrid midfielder was one of England’s standout performers at Euro 2024, notably scoring an injury‑time overhead kick that kept Sir Gareth Southgate’s team from being eliminated by Slovakia.

After a high‑profile move from Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham has made a significant impact in his first two seasons at the Bernabéu, helping the club secure a La Liga and Champions League double under Carlo Ancelotti.

However, the 22‑year‑old struggled with form and fitness last season, netting only six league goals – his lowest tally since the 2021‑22 campaign.

Despite this, Bellingham appeared to be regaining his form in England’s final World Cup warm‑up match against Costa Rica on Wednesday night.

Rogers, meanwhile, had a solid season at Aston Villa, where Unai Emery’s side qualified for the Champions League and won the Europa League.

The 23‑year‑old is expected to play a key role in Tuchel’s squad in the United States and has become a target for Premier League giants Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea this summer.

England legend Alan Shearer has said he would choose Rogers over Bellingham if he were in Tuchel’s position, but former Three Lions defender Richards disagrees.

“I would opt for Morgan Rogers,” Shearer said on The Rest is Football. “As we approach the World Cup, we are all quite optimistic about the outcome. We are pleased with England’s recent performances, and Morgan Rogers has been instrumental in that success. That’s why I believe the manager will select him, and I would fully support that decision.”

Responding to Shearer’s comments, Richards said: “In terms of big moments, Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid, Champions League winner – when England were down in other tournaments, he’s been the guy.”

He added, “He’s had the personality to step up in big moments. I understand the point about Morgan Rogers and I could potentially see both of them in the team at times. But as the main No. 10, there’s no doubt for me that it should be Jude Bellingham. You’ve got to put Jude in the team.”

“This is what frustrates me, we’ve got a genuine superstar in Jude Bellingham… it shouldn’t even be a debate. He’s the best player and he has to start. He’s delivered, he’s delivered at the highest level so he has to start.”