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Topics: Football, Jude Bellingham, England, Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, Transfers
Jude Bellingham claimed that comparisons between him and Steven Gerrard were “disrespectful” to the Liverpool legend.
The 19-year-old dazzled on his World Cup debut as England ran out 6-2 winners against Iran in Doha.
Bellingham opened the scoring with a glancing header that looped beyond the Iran keeper - his first-ever England goal.
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The Borussia Dortmund star is one of the most sought-after players in the world, having been linked with Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea in recent months.
Liverpool are also thought to be keen on Bellingham’s signature and Reds fans have been given hope a transfer could materialise after the teenager revealed his football hero.
When questioned about his heroes the England star named Gerrard right off the bat.
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Bellingham told the BBC: “Gerrard was probably my biggest one.
“The character he has besides the football, it’s world-class. Then, you know, you add on his ability and it’s a joke really.”
When discussing comparisons between Gerrard and himself, the Birmingham-born midfielder said: “When your heroes take the time to appreciate what you’ve done, it’s really special.
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“I’m not sure how I feel because it’s almost a bit disrespectful to him really, all he’s achieved in the game and then to say that after three years we have similarities.
“I think I just want to be Jude and go on my own path.
“What he did was amazing and if I can get even as close to what he’s done then I’ve done well.”
Bellingham was arguably the best player on the pitch against Iran. Beyond his goal, the 19-year-old made 15 entries into the final third, with only right-back Kieran Trippier (15) managing more.
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Meanwhile, his pass accuracy of 96% was bettered only by centre-back John Stones (99%). The teenager also completed 23 passes in the final third.
Bellingham also had a defensive impact. He dispossessed the Iranians nine times, with only Declan Rice (10) outdoing the Borussia Dortmund midfielder.