Lineker: Bellingham could become England's best ever player

England football legend Gary Lineker has heaped praise on Jude Bellingham in an interview with "The Rest Is Football," following the midfielder's stellar World Cup performances.

Last weekend, England beat Norway 2-1 in extra time to reach the semi-finals, with both goals scored by Real Madrid star Bellingham.

"I will even say that Bellingham could become the best English footballer of all time. That's a bold statement," Lineker said. He noted that England has had many outstanding players, but some have not fully delivered for the national team.

Since England's 1966 World Cup triumph, the team has often been criticized for underachieving. Despite stars like Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, and David Beckham, no further trophies have been won. Some argue that many top English players prioritized club football.

At 23, Bellingham may be having the most impressive individual international tournament ever by an English player, scoring six goals – four of which were decisive in the round of 16 and quarter-finals. He also helped England reach the final of Euro 2024.

Lineker also mentioned Bobby Charlton, named world's best in 1966, and Harry Kane, who has also scored six goals in this World Cup. Lineker himself is considered one of England's finest players from the 1980s and 1990s.