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‘His bravery’: Chris Sutton raves about £49k-a-week midfielder that’s linked as Chelsea target

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Chris Sutton hailed Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham for his international performance last night.

The teenage midfielder, who’s linked as a potential Chelsea target, started for England in a Nations League match away to Italy at the San Siro.

England’s poor preparation for the World Cup continued with a 1-0 defeat to Italy, though.

Despite an underwhelming display from Gareth Southgate’s side, Bellingham showed glimpses of why he’s so highly rated in the sport.

The 19-year-old central midfielder tried to inject quality into his side with forward passing and a positive intent.

Italy v England: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 3
Photo by Sportinfoto/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Chris Sutton hailed Jude Bellingham

Former Chelsea player Sutton was full of praise for Bellingham’s latest England display on Friday:

“Bellingham deserves his opportunity [for England]. He’s always looking to move forward with the ball and break through the lines but England didn’t get him on the ball enough. They’ll need his bravery and willingness to progress up the pitch in Qatar,” Sutton wrote for the Daily Mail.

According to The Athletic this week, Chelsea are among the clubs to have a “strong interest” in signing Bellingham. He’s also wanted by Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid.

The £49,000-a-week player is currently shining at club level as a box-to-box midfielder for German side Dortmund, who historically do sell one marquee player per summer.

UEFA Nations League Italy v England
Photo by Isabella Bonotto/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

More England connections

Chelsea already have strong connections with the English national side, which is proven by four players being drafted into the squad for the current international break.

However, that number could grow if people at Stamford Bridge get their way.

England midfielder Bellingham, along with international teammate Declan Rice from West Ham, are both linked with Chelsea. It’s been reported recently that the Blues have a vision to sign 23-year-old midfielder Rice.

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