Jude Bellingham’s will to win set him apart, says youth coach

Arguably England's standout performer at the World Cup, the young midfielder's desire to be the best was always apparent, his coach at Birmingham City recalls

Jude Bellingham's talent was always apparent, his youth coach at Birmingham City has said, after the England midfielder helped propel his nation through to the last eight of the World Cup on Sunday night. But what set him apart as a child was his sheer will, not just to make a professional career, but to be the very best.

He was a seven-year-old when he walked through the doors at Birmingham City's training ground. Talented boy, but talented like most seven-year-olds that come into most academies up and down the country," said Mike Dodds, who coached Bellingham at the club.