Ian Wright Defends Jude Bellingham Amid Criticism

Former England striker Ian Wright has come to the defense of Jude Bellingham, asserting that some individuals are not “ready for a Black superstar.”

Bellingham faced scrutiny for his reaction to being substituted during England’s World Cup qualifying victory against Albania on Sunday, with insinuations that he is a disruptive presence within the squad. However, Wright contended that criticism stems from a fear of Bellingham’s success.

“They cannot reach this guy. He is an achiever; he’s a winner, and he delivers on the pitch,” Wright remarked on the Stick to Football podcast. “England has qualified with such ease that they need to create an alternative narrative to focus on.”

Wright further stated, “I don’t think they are prepared for a Black superstar with Jude’s level of talent. He is untouchable. He consistently performs and executes his game plan, which seems to unsettle some people.”

He continued, comparing Bellingham to other Black footballers: “Everyone admires N’Golo Kante, who is a humble individual simply focused on his game. However, when you have players like Paul Pogba or Bellingham, whose energy is more vibrant, it can make certain individuals uncomfortable. Someone like Jude intimidates them due to his extraordinary potential and the inspiration he can provide.”

Wright emphasized, “Being outspoken, Black, and excelling at such a high level while remaining unfazed can be daunting for certain people. It is exhausting to continuously discuss this topic.”

Bellingham was recently recalled to Thomas Tuchel’s squad for matches against Serbia and Albania after being omitted from the October squad. This decision followed a summer training camp where Tuchel mistakenly stated that Bellingham’s actions on the field were “repulsive” to his mother.

Wright disclosed that he had reached out to Bellingham prior to his return to the squad to prepare him for the criticism he might face. “I sent a message to Jude saying, ‘Be ready.’ Something was coming. It feels like a tsunami. Unless you perform exceptionally, the backlash will return.”

When Bellingham inquired about what to expect, Wright advised him, “Be ready for it, and it has arrived.”