Bellingham, who played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal, put in an impressive performance in midfield, showcasing his vision, composure, and physicality.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder displayed maturity beyond his years and earned plaudits from fans and pundits alike for his display.
He was eventually substituted in the 83rd minute to rapturous applause from the Wembley crowd. The victory means England now sits comfortably at the top of their qualifying group with four wins out of four.
Saka’s goal was a moment of pure quality that underlined his growing reputation as one of the most promising attacking talents in English football.
The Arsenal winger received the ball on the edge of the box and curled a sensational shot beyond the despairing dive of the Ukrainian goalkeeper.
The visitors tried to mount a comeback in the second half, but England’s defense held firm to secure a comfortable win.
After the final whistle, Bellingham and Gerrard had a heartwarming chat on the pitch, with the former expressing his delight at playing in front of his childhood hero.
Gerrard, in turn, praised Bellingham’s performance and tipped him for a bright future in the game.
The interview quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising the mutual respect and admiration between the two midfielders.
Watch it below…
Not sure who’s a bigger fan of who 😅
Jude Bellingham and Steven Gerrard had a lot of kind words for each other 💕#C4Football | #ThreeLions | #ENGUKR pic.twitter.com/bDAn5YX7fF
— Channel 4 Sport (@C4Sport) March 26, 2023
When asked if Gerrard is one of his biggest role models, Bellingham replied: “I’m nervous now! Definitely. The things that Stevie could do, the teams he played for, the way he could carry a team, the way he could single-handedly win a game. He could do everything as a midfielder.
Turning to Gerrard, he added: “I’ve said it multiple times how I’ve looked up to you and your game. It’s a pleasure to be stood here right now.”
The Liverpool and England legend responded: “Well let me tell you, you’re a lot further ahead than I was at your age. So you’re going in the right direction, that’s for sure.”
Pressed to expand further, Gerrard continued: “Well for one he’s got a better body than what I had at 19. No, I’m being serious! I never had that power and strength until I was 22-23.
“So he’s definitely more physically developed than me. He’s more confident than me on the ball, in terms of trying stuff. I’m not just saying that to be modest, but I think he’s further on than what I was at 19.
“Don’t get me wrong, I got to where I wanted to get to, and he’s going to get to where he wants to if he keeps doing what he’s doing. He’s in a fantastic place. He just needs to keep playing well, keep playing well and everything else will take care of itself.”
Bellingham to Liverpool in the summer?
Bellingham’s impressive performances in the Bundesliga and for the England national team have caught the attention of several top clubs across Europe, with Liverpool reportedly leading the race for his signature.
The 19-year-old midfielder would provide a dynamic and creative presence in Jurgen Klopp’s midfield, and his potential for further development makes him an attractive prospect for the Reds.
However, Liverpool will face stiff competition for Bellingham’s signature, with the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea all reportedly interested in the player.
It remains to be seen where Bellingham will end up, but one thing is for sure: the talented youngster is destined for big things in the future.