Sir Geoff Hurst has voiced his support for England star Jude Bellingham amidst the controversy surrounding Thomas Tuchel’s criticism of the team.
Sir Geoff, aged 84, commended Bellingham, 23, for his standout performance, scoring two crucial goals in the 2-1 victory over Norway in the quarter-finals. Bellingham’s brace secured England’s spot in the upcoming semi-final clash against Argentina, where he nonchalantly responded to Tuchel’s post-match critique with a simple ‘whatever’.
The legendary 1966 hat-trick hero praised Bellingham’s reaction to Tuchel’s comments, describing it as ‘fantastic’. Speaking to the Mirror, Sir Geoff expressed his admiration for Bellingham’s dismissive attitude, stating that it showcased a winning mindset. He also hinted at England’s potential to win the World Cup, noting that the current semi-finalists were largely predicted.
Regarding the impending match against Argentina, Sir Geoff acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the South American powerhouse, emphasizing England’s readiness to face them head-on.
Sir Geoff reminisced about the historical rivalry between England and Argentina, citing past encounters and the intensity of their clashes, including the 1966 quarter-final where England triumphed 1-0 with an Argentine player being sent off.
Looking ahead to the 2026 England squad, Sir Geoff highlighted the importance of team spirit, echoing Tuchel’s emphasis on collective effort as a key factor in achieving success, drawing parallels to the camaraderie of the 1966 team.
When asked about the possibility of football “coming home,” Sir Geoff exuded positivity, affirming his belief that England could indeed secure the victory. He expressed unwavering confidence in the team’s capabilities, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset in achieving success.
As the World Cup excitement builds up, Sir Geoff’s optimism and faith in England’s potential to emerge victorious resonate with fans and supporters alike.