Former England and Arsenal forward Ian Wright has defended Jude Bellingham after a wave of criticism over the midfielder’s visible frust
Former England and Arsenal forward Ian Wright has defended Jude Bellingham after a wave of criticism over the midfielder’s visible frustration when substituted in England’s final World Cup qualifier match against Albania, arguing that some people are simply “not ready for a black superstar” and that Bellingham’s confidence and success make certain critics uncomfortable.
When Ian Wright was quizzed by Gary Neville on Jude Bellingham’s recent criticisms from some fans, about his attitude, on The Overlap YouTube channel, he said:
“I’m worried for Jude simply because he’s somebody that they can’t control. He’s showing people that I’m here, I’m black, I’m proud, I’m ready to go.
“I don’t think they’re ready for a black superstar who can move like Jude [Bellingham] is moving. They can’t touch him. He goes out there, he performs, he does what he does. It’s too uppity for these people.
“They all love N’Golo Kante. He’s a humble black man, gets on with what he’s doing. But if you get a [Paul] Pogba or a Bellingham, and you get that kind of energy, that does not sit well with people. Someone like Jude frightens these people because of his capability and the inspiration he can give.
“It’s something that you’re taught as a black man when you’re going out there, you just want to do the best you can and keep your head down. And be, for want of a better term, a humble f—— slave.
“This is dragging up from that kind of energy. Because if you are outspoken, black, and playing to that kind of level and not caring, that frightens certain people.”
“I sent a message to Jude saying: ‘Listen, my friend, be ready [before England’s games]. Something was coming, I could feel it. I said, ‘Just be ready. ’ The thing is, of course, it’s private, but he said ‘Ready for what?’ I said ‘Listen, it’s coming, and I’m here. I’m going to be here and I’m going to make sure that I’m going to be on this side.”
Ian Wright’s suggestions have already been dividing opinions among English fans, with some calling his comments too harsh.
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