Bellingham 'writes his own scripts' in England win

Bellingham: England's Wonderkid Writes His Own Script Under Southgate

Gareth Southgate's England reign has been defined by a cautious pragmatism, a calculated approach that prioritizes stability over flair. Yet, on a balmy Sunday night in Belgrade, it was a teenage midfielder, a player seemingly ripped from the pages of a future England dream, who stole the show. Jude Bellingham, the newly minted Real Madrid star, wasn't content with following a pre-written script; he authored his own victory narrative, firing England to a narrow 1-0 win in their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia.

Southgate's praise for Bellingham was effusive. "He writes his own script," the England manager declared, a hint of awe in his voice. Bellingham's performance justified the hyperbole. At just 19 years old, he displayed a maturity that belied his age. His surging runs from midfield broke Serbia's lines, his passing was crisp and decisive, and his close control in tight spaces was a constant thorn in the Serbian defense. And then, there was the goal. A moment of pure opportunism, Bellingham pounced on a loose ball in the box, unleashing a venomous low shot that found the back of the net.

This wasn't just a coming-of-age performance for Bellingham; it was a vindication of Southgate's faith in youth. The England manager has gradually integrated a new generation of talent into the squad, and Bellingham is the crown jewel of this movement. His inclusion alongside established stars like Declan Rice and Harry Kane signifies a shift in Southgate's philosophy, a dawning recognition that perhaps England's path to glory lies not just in defensive solidity, but also in unlocking the creative potential of its young guns.

However, questions remain. While Bellingham shone, England's overall performance was less than convincing. The midfield struggled to maintain control for long stretches, and Serbia, spurred on by a passionate home crowd, threatened an equalizer late on. Can England sustain their success if they continue to rely on individual brilliance to mask underlying tactical deficiencies?

The answer will likely come in the coming matches. England faces a sterner test against a more possession-oriented opponent in their next group stage fixture. Here, Bellingham's creative spark and tireless work ethic will be crucial. Can he continue to write his own scripts, or will Southgate need to adjust his tactics to fully unlock the potential of England's new midfield maestro? One thing is certain: with Bellingham on the pitch, England possesses a player capable of the extraordinary, a player who can turn the tide of a match with a single moment of magic. The Euros have only just begun, but Jude Bellingham has already announced himself on the biggest stage. The rest of the tournament promises to be a captivating watch, with England's young star holding the pen in his hand, ready to write the next chapter in his meteoric rise.