The recent discussion featuring Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers on the Lions’ Den sofa unexpectedly revealed significant insights regarding England’s Euro 2024 campaign. Despite the Football Association’s control over the content, Bellingham was candid about the challenges faced during the tournament.
“It didn’t feel like there was any kind of hierarchy,” the 22-year-old midfielder noted. “I think at the Euros we got some things a little bit wrong off the pitch. I don’t feel like the group connected as well as it could have – for a number of reasons.”
His reflections hinted at underlying issues within the team two years ago, a revelation not entirely shocking but significant coming from one of England’s key players as they prepare for the World Cup.
Bellingham added, “We weren’t playing particularly well, which doesn’t help,”
The team struggled to maintain a positive atmosphere, and the disconnection among players was evident. This lack of cohesion was highlighted when Gareth Southgate had to explain his squad choices to Harry Kane at Tottenham’s training ground before heading to Germany.
A generous interpretation of Southgate’s decisions would be to call them bold; however, a more precise evaluation suggests he lost touch with his managerial identity. After emphasizing the importance of fostering a positive culture, he shocked many by selecting inexperienced youngsters while excluding established players like Harry Maguire, Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, and crucially, Jordan Henderson.
England failed to find a solution without Henderson’s leadership, ultimately falling short against Spain in the final. While Bellingham showcased his talent, moments of immaturity occasionally surfaced, revealing a need for guidance from a seasoned player. Henderson’s protective nature towards Bellingham was sorely missed, which likely contributed to Kane’s relief when Thomas Tuchel decided to reintegrate the former Liverpool star into the squad.
Tuchel invested considerable effort in understanding why England’s identity seemed lacking. He concluded that having Henderson around would facilitate a better atmosphere and help maintain high standards within the dressing room.
As England prepares for their opening match against Croatia, Henderson will turn 36. Although he may not be a starter and has lost some physical prowess, critics argue that his presence in the US merely serves to support Bellingham. Many fans believed his international career should have ended following his transfer to the Saudi Pro League in 2023.
Those sentiments persist, raising questions about why the future should not focus on younger players like Adam Wharton. However, Henderson’s respect among teammates explains Tuchel’s choice to include him. The new head coach has emphasized creating a brotherhood among players and observed that Henderson encourages others to thrive.
Bellingham and Rogers expressed their admiration for Henderson during their Lions’ Den session, labeling him the best person they have encountered in football. They acknowledged his behind-the-scenes contributions, emphasizing that he serves as the glue that binds the team. Henderson demonstrated authority during a 25-minute media session at the England training facility in Kansas City.
“Even when we were winning we didn’t get the feeling that we were as happy as we should be. You want to win, but the nature of football is that wins go out of the system very quickly.” Henderson said. “It’s important to make sure the culture off the pitch is good but that’s not down to one person,”
Henderson brought intensity to England’s recent closed-door friendly against Miami FC. The day prior, he observed Tuchel’s squad dominate Costa Rica in Tampa. “Everyone has a role to play. It’s creating a culture to keep driving each other forward.” he reflected. “When I look back at pre-tournament games, that is the very best I’ve seen,”
Tuchel has identified pressing as central to England’s identity. Bellingham, chosen over Rogers for the No. 10 role, excelled without the ball, playing a vital part in a strong performance that suggests he is in a much better position than during the Euros.
England understands that the mood within the camp can greatly influence tournament outcomes. Tuchel has concentrated on selecting players with strong character and competitive spirit. His choice to exclude Maguire proved wise, particularly after the defender publicly commented on his omission. Henderson likely resents being viewed as merely a cheerleader; he believes he can still make an impact on the field, even if his contributions are primarily off the bench.
Ultimately, Henderson’s influence behind the scenes is expected to be crucial. Southgate underestimated his value. Despite initially supporting Henderson after his move to Saudi Arabia, Southgate’s perspective shifted just before the Euros when he deemed the player unfit for selection.
Southgate overlooked Henderson’s significant personality traits, but Bellingham’s comments indicate that Tuchel recognized their importance.
