In the fourth round of the UEFA Nations League A, England defeated the Czech Republic 3-0 at home. After the match, England midfielder Bellingham was interviewed by ITV Sport.
Jude, another victory for England, another clean sheet. How would you summarize tonight's performance?
Yes, it's exactly what we needed at home. I know it's often tricky when away teams come here to play because they sit deep and try to disrupt our rhythm. But if you look at the final score, as you said, three goals and a clean sheet, it's hard to be unhappy with that. However, it clearly wasn't entirely the ideal match for us, as we had just come off a 7-0 victory, and everyone was eager for more goals. But regardless, we got the job done and showed great professionalism.
Can you tell us about Kane, the man who made history tonight with his 125th England appearance, two goals, and an assist? You've played alongside him for almost your entire England career. Can you objectively assess his achievements?
I think all the praise that can be said has already been said. I can only speak from my own perspective, and first and foremost, he is an incredible person. As a captain and as a man, he looks after everyone in the team. When there's anything that needs to be sorted off the pitch, he's always the one who steps up and takes responsibility. On the pitch, all the praise in the world is not enough to describe him. He is the greatest player to ever wear this shirt for England, and it's an honour to play alongside him.
Is he better now than ever before?
I think so, I have to say. Looking around the world, the level he's currently showing is arguably unmatched. He scores goals as a matter of course, and at the same time, he can drop deep, deliver passes that cut through defences or switch play to the flanks, contributing in all areas of the pitch. Not only that, but he also actively tracks back and makes tackles—he can do it all. Yes, he's only going to get better, and we have to rely on his ability for as long as possible.
Tonight was also your 60th cap for England, and you almost capped it off with a cheeky back-heel chip.
Yeah, Morgan Rogers played a great ball, and I was just thinking of trying something inspired. When you feel good and confident, you naturally want to try different things. It didn't quite go in, but that's okay.
And how are you feeling about your current form? Having been named England Player of the Year, it seems you've reached an unprecedented level.
Perhaps so. First and foremost, I'm enjoying football. I went through some difficult times last season, but I learned more about myself and discovered ways to make the game easier, especially when playing for England. So I've been working hard to get better and better, and I hope I can continue to do so.
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