Sir Geoff Hurst has advised Jude Bellingham’s father, Mark, to remain calm following a recent dispute involving his sons. The England football legend expressed his concern during an event in Bristol.
Background of the Dispute
The tension arose after Mark Bellingham confronted a Borussia Dortmund official over the halftime substitution of his son, Jobe, during a match against St. Pauli. The game ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw.
- Jobe Bellingham was substituted at halftime in his debut match.
- He joined Dortmund from Sunderland for £33 million this summer.
- Dortmund has since imposed restrictions on player families in the dressing room following the incident.
Sir Geoff Hurst’s Comments
Hurst voiced his disapproval of the situation, labeling Mark Bellingham’s actions as an “absolute joke.” He emphasized that such behavior should be eliminated from the game.
During the event, Hurst also praised Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane as standout players for England.
Concerns About England’s Management
Sir Geoff, now 83, has expressed his hopes regarding Thomas Tuchel, the current manager of the England national team. While he typically prefers an English manager, he recognizes Tuchel’s potential to lead England to success in upcoming international competitions.
The World Cup will take place in North America in July 2026. Hurst remarked, “If Tuchel performs well, he will have done a fantastic job.” However, he cautioned that poor results could tarnish his tenure.
Historical Context
Historically, England has thrived under English managers since Sir Alf Ramsey led the team to World Cup glory in 1966. Other notable managers, including Sir Bobby Robson and Gareth Southgate, achieved significant success, while foreign coaches have often fallen short.
Final Thoughts
Sir Geoff Hurst remains optimistic about England’s future, stating that national pride should come before nationality in football management. His endorsement of Tuchel reflects a hope for a successful world campaign next summer.
