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‘They’ve got no idea what they’re saying’ – Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers stand by Jordan Henderson amid England World Cup selection debate

Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers have passionately defended Jordan Henderson as discussions continue around his inclusion in England’s World Cup squad. Both players emphasised that the experienced midfielder’s value goes well beyond his performances on the field, praising his leadership, humility, and influence within Thomas Tuchel’s camp ahead of England’s opening fixture against Croatia.

England players back Henderson’s inclusion

As the Three Lions gear up for their first World Cup match against Croatia in Dallas, Henderson’s role in the national squad has been under scrutiny. Although questions persist externally regarding his place in Tuchel’s plans, Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham and Aston Villa forward Rogers have strongly dismissed the criticism. They insisted that Henderson remains a vital presence within the team’s environment.

Bellingham shuts down external criticism

Speaking on England’s official YouTube channel, Bellingham made it clear he has little patience for those questioning Henderson’s place in the squad.

"He’s hilarious, honestly the funniest guy in this camp, and he keeps everyone laughing and united," Bellingham said. "If there’s ever an issue and you’re 22 or 23 and might feel it’s too much to bring up, he’ll handle it for you. If there’s tension between two people, he’ll bring them together.

"He’s the kind of person even the staff turn to when something needs sorting. He’s completely selfless when it comes to supporting the team. This is a Premier League and Champions League-winning captain, and he was helping with finishing drills. He doesn’t need to do that, doesn’t have to be that humble, but every single day he’s relentless in training, pushing everyone to improve.

"I don’t understand how anyone can’t respect that. They’ve got no idea what they’re saying. You [the presenter] have been here for just a week and even you can see how crucial he is. He’s private with the media, which gives them room to create their own story about him. But for us, he’s one of the first names on the teamsheet."

'The best person in football'

Rogers shared similar views, describing Henderson as one of the most admired figures within the group. He even went so far as to call him the best person he had encountered in the world of football.

"The best guy I’ve ever met in football," Rogers said. "If people were asked to do a blind ranking of who they’d want in the camp, he’d easily be in everyone’s top five."

Henderson expected to play key role on and off the pitch

England now shift focus to their World Cup opener against Croatia, where Henderson’s leadership and experience will once again be under observation. Following that, the Three Lions will meet Ghana on June 23 before wrapping up their Group L campaign against Panama later in the month.

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