Jude Bellingham reflects on national anthem and family ties amid tournament success
England midfielder Jude Bellingham has revealed that singing the national anthem reminds him of his late grandad, reports BritPanorama.
The 22-year-old Real Madrid player was passionately singing “God Save the King” before the Three Lions’ 4-2 victory over Croatia to kick off the tournament. Bellingham scored his seventh goal for England just minutes into the second half, putting Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead in the 47th minute.
This match marks a significant moment in Bellingham’s career, six years after he made his international debut. He expressed how the anthem serves as a poignant reminder of his family’s sacrifices. In an interview, he stated, “I think the anthem is the last chance you get to really be mindful of the people who have got you there and what it means to be from England.” He reflected on his grandad, who passed away just before Bellingham’s England debut, and described him as “so patriotic.”
“He was an Englishman through and through,” Bellingham added, recalling his grandad’s encyclopedic knowledge of history. “I do think about my grandad when that moment’s coming (just before a match during the anthem).”
If selected to start in Tuesday’s game against Ghana, it would be his 50th senior cap. He noted, “I also think about the rest of my family and the sacrifices they’ve made to get me to this stage.” He specifically mentioned his brother Jobe, who plays for Borussia Dortmund, highlighting the support he has received throughout his career.
After the match, Bellingham spoke about the importance of wearing the England badge and the responsibility he feels towards his country. “It’s every footballer’s dream to play at a World Cup,” he stated, adding, “My responsibility to my team and to my country is to give everything I have.”
Tuchel’s side faced some pre-match challenges when he expressed frustration over photographers blocking his view during the anthem. He urged FIFA to adjust arrangements for future matches to enhance the experience for coaching staff. “I could not see my team during the national anthem,” he lamented. FIFA took note of his feedback, making changes to positioning for subsequent fixtures.
Bellingham’s dual reflections on personal loss and professional ambition encapsulate the human experience behind the sport. As the tournament unfolds, his journey serves as a reminder of the familial bonds that shape players on and off the pitch, illustrating how the personal often intersects with the professional in football.
