The truth behind England’s Euro 2024 campaign has surfaced unexpectedly, thanks to Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers’ candid remarks during a recent interview. While sitting on the Lions’ Den sofa, Bellingham revealed insights about the team dynamics that many may not have anticipated, especially within a setting controlled by the Football Association.
“It didn’t feel like there was any kind of hierarchy,” the 22-year-old midfielder explained. “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.”
Such admissions are significant, particularly as England gears up for another World Cup campaign. Bellingham’s acknowledgment of internal issues within the squad two years ago, although not shocking, emphasizes the need for reflection as the team aims for success.
“We weren’t playing particularly well, which doesn’t help,” he noted. “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.”
England struggled to maintain a positive atmosphere. The disconnect was evident, particularly when Gareth Southgate had to take Harry Kane for an impromptu discussion at Tottenham’s training ground to clarify his roster decisions ahead of the tournament.
Critics might describe Southgate’s choices as bold, but a more fitting assessment suggests he lost touch with his managerial identity. After emphasizing the importance of establishing a strong team culture, he surprised many by selecting several inexperienced players while excluding key figures like Harry Maguire, Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, and notably, Jordan Henderson.
Without Henderson’s leadership, England struggled on the pitch, ultimately succumbing to Spain in the final match. Despite Bellingham’s standout moments, there were instances of immaturity that hinted at the need for a more experienced presence. Henderson, known for his protective nature towards Bellingham, was sorely missed; Kane expressed relief when Thomas Tuchel decided to reintegrate the former Liverpool captain into the squad.
Tuchel, having taken the reins, invested time in understanding the lack of identity in England’s gameplay. He determined that having Henderson around would foster a better atmosphere off the pitch, essential for maintaining high standards in the locker room.
As England prepares to face Croatia in their World Cup opener on Wednesday, Henderson will turn 36. While he may no longer be a starter and has lost some agility, there are critiques suggesting he is merely present to support Bellingham and manage equipment. Many fans believed his international career should have concluded following his move to the Saudi Pro League in 2023.
These sentiments linger. The question arises: why not focus on the younger talent like Adam Wharton? The answer lies in the profound respect Henderson commands from his teammates. Tuchel has assessed group dynamics and emphasized the importance of nurturing a brotherhood, noting that players tend to flourish when Henderson is part of the setup.
Bellingham and Rogers praised Henderson during their Lions’ Den appearance, calling him the best person they’ve encountered in football. They highlighted his behind-the-scenes contributions, describing him as the glue that binds the team together. Henderson displayed his leadership qualities during a 25-minute media session at England’s training base in Kansas City on Monday.
He came to Bellingham’s defense, asserting that public perceptions of the young star’s character are misguided. He also praised Declan Rice, who has been appointed as England’s new vice-captain. “It’s important to make sure the culture off the pitch is good but that’s not down to one person,” Henderson remarked. “Everyone has a role to play. It’s creating a culture to keep driving each other forward.”
Henderson showcased his intensity during a closed-door friendly against Miami FC last Thursday. The day before, he observed as Tuchel’s team dominated Costa Rica in Tampa. “When I look back at pre-tournament games, that is the very best I’ve seen,” he stated. “It’s about taking that into Croatia.”
Tuchel emphasizes that pressing is fundamental to England’s identity. Bellingham, chosen over Rogers for the No 10 position, excelled without the ball, contributing significantly to the team’s performance and appearing in much better form than during the Euros.
England understands that tournament success often hinges on maintaining a positive atmosphere within the camp. Tuchel has prioritized character in his selections, opting for players who are eager and fostering healthy competition. His decision to omit Maguire proved wise, especially after the defender publicly commented on his exclusion. Henderson likely resents the notion that he is merely a glorified cheerleader; he believes he can still make a significant impact on the field, even if it means coming off the bench to assist with game management.
Ultimately, Henderson’s leadership behind the scenes is expected to be invaluable. Southgate underestimated his contributions, initially supporting him after his move to Saudi Arabia, only to change his mind before the Euros, deeming him unfit for selection.
Listening to Bellingham, it’s clear why Tuchel chose to recognize Henderson’s true worth, avoiding the same oversight that plagued Southgate.
