England defender Kieran Trippier heaped praise on the unbelievable Jude Bellingham after he played a starring role in the Three Lions 6-2 hammering of Iran in their World Cup opener.
Bellingham came straight into England s starting XI for the clash at the Khalifa International Stadium on Monday, with Gareth Southgate somewhat catching fans off-guard by naming an attack-minded team.
Their attacking mentality certainly paid off, as did the selection of Bellingham, who opened the scoring just past the half-hour mark with a fine header after a trademark late run into the box, making him England s second-youngest World Cup goalscorer of all time.
While that was the only goal or assist the 19-year-old recorded, Bellingham also played a part in the build-up to Raheem Sterling making it 3-0, and he also released Callum Wilson when the Newcastle United striker set up Jack Grealish s late tap-in.
Bellingham offered drive and purpose to an England midfield often criticised for being too negative, and Trippier was full of admiration.
Bellingham is an unbelievable player for such a young age, he told BBC Radio 5 Live.
England 6-2 Iran: Five England players score their first ever World Cup goal in a game that felt like it would never end. Gareth Southgate s side put a marker down
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He is playing at such a high level and he is not afraid. He s got to keep his feet on the ground and keep performing at a high level, like I know he will.
Bukayo Saka also caught the eye for England, scoring two very well-taken goals.
With Bellingham and the Arsenal man both netting, it was the first time in World Cup history that England had two players aged 21 or younger score in a single game, and the impact of the Three Lions youngsters left Trippier thrilled.
I m delighted for them, getting the first goals in the first game, he continued.
They ve all worked so hard. They have great experience for such a young age. Now, it s just about expressing themselves and enjoying it, that s the most important thing.
I m 32 years old, and I m enjoying every game. If I m playing or not, I will always be ready.
England are next in action against the United States on Friday. Iran face Wales the same day.
