Major recognition for Jobe Bellingham: Borussia Dortmund star experiences a career first
Jobe Bellingham has earned his first call-up to England's senior national team. Thomas Tuchel has rewarded the Englishman's clear improvement in form at Borussia Dortmund.
Since the start of the season, Bellingham has become indispensable in Dortmund's midfield. He has been in outstanding form recently alongside Joey Veerman, while Felix Nmecha, for example, has turned in some rather poor performances.
Against Bayern Munich, Bellingham delivered his best performance yet in a black and yellow shirt. He was hugely active and threatened going forward on several occasions (SPOX rating: 2).
"Physically, he really is at a top level. And you can see that," sporting director Ole Book enthused afterwards. "He can hold his own, and he can work his way into games. And he still has the energy to play precisely, even when the game goes on a bit longer." "All the players at this level can do that in the opening exchanges. But he can cover a lot of ground throughout the whole game and still play precise football," the 40-year-old continued. Bellingham was a player "for the big stage", he said. The youngster had proved that against Bayern Munich.
Tuchel continues tough approach with England stars
Bellingham's clear improvement on his first season in Dortmund has earned him a place alongside his brother Jude in the Three Lions squad for the first time. Until now, Jobe had only played for the U21s.
"He gets the chance to join up and make an impression in the first team. He has now played a lot of games and is in good form at Dortmund. That's why he deserves to be with us," Tuchel said, explaining the 21-year-old's call-up for the Nations League matches against Croatia (12 November) and world champions Spain (15 November).
Tuchel has also continued his tough approach, which does not spare high-profile names. Manchester City's Phil Foden and Cole Palmer are again absent from Tuchel's squad. Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose omission from the World Cup squad sparked heated debate in England, is included again.
