‘Scary’ Bellingham can be the difference for England – Trippier

England defender Kieran Trippier says Jude Bellingham could make a difference for the team ahead of their Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy.

Bellingham has been in superb form since joining Real Madrid in the summer transfer window, scoring 10 goals in his first 10 starts for his new side in all competitions.

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“He can make the difference,” Trippier told reporters. “At such a young age, with his maturity, his quality and his aggression, he is scary. It’s no surprise at all, the standards he set at Madrid.

“You can see that he plays with freedom and the players around him are going to make him even better. The scary thing is that he is only 20 years old.”

Trippier added that the England team had made “massive strides” since the 2018 World Cup.

“We lost in the Euro final but the most important thing is that we are progressing and doing very well,” Trippier said.

“We have goals all over the field and Jude, Madders [James Maddison]Bukayo [Saka]Phil [Foden] are still young but can all change the game at times.”

Trippier also defended teammate Jordan Henderson, who was booed by England fans during Friday’s 1-0 friendly win over Australia after joining Saudi club Al Ettifaq earlier this year.

“As players we stick together,” Trippier said.

“I see Hendo daily. He’s an incredible character, he’s a leader – what he does for the team, whether he’s playing or not playing.

“He’s an incredible person to have in the locker room. He makes sure everyone is training properly. He sets standards.”

England face Italy on Tuesday at Wembley.