Jude Bellingham has been working with Joleon Lescott at Hotspur Way as England gear up to face the Republic of Ireland
Jude Bellingham in England training at Hotspur Way (Image: Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
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Jude Bellingham has branded Joleon Lescott a ‘legend’ ahead of England’s clash against the Republic of Ireland. The Three Lions will be hoping to secure promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League at Wembley Stadium on Sunday night.
It will be Lee Carsley’s sixth and final match in charge as interim manager before Thomas Tuchel takes over in the new year. After inspiring England to a 3-0 win over Greece on Thursday evening, the Real Madrid midfielder will be hoping to – once again – leave his mark.
Ahead of the bout with Ireland, Carsley has been putting his players through their paces in training at Hotspur Way. During the various drills, Bellingham was enjoying an exchange with Lescott, who joined the England backroom staff in August.
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After the session, the 21-year-old posted a couple of pictures from the encounter to his Instagram story, where he called the former Manchester City defender a legend. Bellingham followed up the post with another snap from training, which he captioned: “Can’t wait to see you all at Wembley tomorrow.”
Lescott has always been an admirer of the Galáctico. Speaking to the MailOnline in October 2023, he said: “Jude’s one of the most exciting talents if not the most exciting talent in the world. He’s the best player in the world right now.”
The Manchester City icon added: “Jude’s had a huge impact at Real Madrid and that’s incredible to think from a boy who’s come from Birmingham. As a human he’s impressive as well, not just as a footballer, he’s someone you can look up to and admire.
“He’s carrying himself well and delivering on the pitch. He understands the game at a level he shouldn’t at his age. Long may it continue for himself and England because he could win the Ballon D’or and that would be a huge thing for England.”
As it stands, it remains to be seen whether Bellingham will feature for the Three Lions against Ireland – let alone Harry Kane, who was dropped to the bench against Greece. Speaking to the BBC ahead of the game, the Bayern Munich striker said: “It’s not the first time I have been a sub for England.
“Since Lee has been in charge, I have only played one game per camp. I always want to start every game, I have never shied away from that. We’re in a tough stage of the season. But whenever called upon, I will always give my all for the team, whether it’s off the bench or starting, I will always give my ultimate effort.”
Manchester City wrapped up the 2023/24 season with a fourth successive Premier League title, but they missed out on another Treble with defeat in the FA Cup final and Champions League quarter-finals. It’s now time for Pep Guardiola and co to turn their attention to the transfer window.
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