Steven Gerrard says Liverpool target Jude Bellingham is ‘a lot further ahead’ than when he was at 19 years old as pair exchange kind words

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard claims that Jude Bellingham is developing a lot better than he did at 19-years-old.

His comments come after the Borussia Dortmund star put in yet another fine performance for England as they ran out comfortable 2-0 winners over Ukraine at Wembley.

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Channel 4

Bellingham played 86 minutes of the 2-0 Euro 2024 qualifier dominating the midfield despite his tender age.

The midfielder’s performances are attracting transfer interest from Manchester City and Real Madrid.

Liverpool are also keen on a move, and their former captain, who has offered to buy him dinner in a bid to get Bellingham to join the Reds, has waxed lyrical about one of football’s most exciting talents.

Speaking on Channel 4 after the win, Bellingham revealed his admiration for Gerrard, saying: “The things that Stevie could do in terms of the teams he played in, the way he could carry a team.

“The way he could single-handedly win a game, he could do everything as a midfielder. I’ve said it multiple times I’ve looked up to you and your game so it’s a pleasure to be stood here right now.”

Gerrard then responded with a bold claim about his current ability, adding: “Listen let me tell you right now, you’re a lot further ahead than I was at your age, let me tell you so. You’re going in the right direction, that’s for sure.”

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When asked why he rates Bellingham so highly, Gerrard replied: “He’s got a better body than what I had at 19. I never probably had that power and that strength until probably 22/23 years old, so he’s definitely more physically developed than me.

“He’s more confident than me on the ball in terms of what he will try and stuff. I’m not just saying that just being modest, that’s the truth. I think he’s further on than I was at 19.

“Don’t get me wrong, I got to where I wanted to get to and he’ll naturally get to where he wants to if he carries on doing what he’s doing.

“He’s in a fantastic place and everything else around him he needs to just park it up and keep playing well, everything else will take care of itself.”

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Bellingham has now made 24 appearances for England, which is 11 more than Gerrard made for Liverpool by the time he turned 19.

He scored his first international goal in their 2022 World Cup opener against Iran, and is now a key starter for Gareth Southgate.

The midfielder will return to Dortmund for the rest of the season, with his side currently top of the Bundesliga table.

A transfer battle for his signature is likely to take place in the summer, with Bellingham once again proving he has the ability to become one of the best in world football.

Channel 4