Merson: 'England must feed ball to Bellingham like Argentina do with Messi'
USA - Former star Paul Merson thinks England not exploit Jude Bellingham full potential, urges teammates pass more to Real Madrid midfielder.
In World Cup 2026 Group L second match at Gillette Stadium on June 23, England held 78.8% possession, shot 19 times but got held 0-0 by Ghana. Bellingham started, had 40 touches, 87% pass accuracy, created one chance, shot twice with one on target, made 15 carries. Minute 73, he subbed out for Morgan Rogers, player who won 2025-2026 Europa League with Aston Villa.
Jude Bellingham (white shirt) dribbles in England 0-0 Ghana match, World Cup 2026 Group L second round at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Boston, USA on June 23, 2026. Photo: Reuters
On Sky Sports, Merson compared England play against Ghana to Subbuteo game—famous table football game—as players lacked movement. According to 58-year-old former midfielder, Bellingham was rare bright spot, constantly finding space and demanding ball, but teammates failed to utilize him.
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"Many times Bellingham ready to receive ball but no pass comes," Merson commented. "Look how Argentina find Messi. They give him ball anywhere on pitch. With one touch, Messi eliminates two or three opponents. Team must trust Bellingham more. He is world-class player, often in great positions."
After opening 4-2 win over Croatia, failing to score against Ghana disappoints England. 78.8% is highest possession for team in World Cup history (since 1966) in scoreless match.
"Reality check. Cannot score four goals every game, but England expected to break down opponent defense," Merson continued. "Cannot win World Cup in second match. Early wake-up calls better than late ones."
*Key moments of England 0-0 Ghana match.
Merson said scenario not new, as many England draws in major tournaments happen against deep-defending opponents. Midfield creativity concerns Merson most. According to former Arsenal midfielder, high possession without creating dangerous chances worries coaching staff.
"I think midfield lacks guile," he analyzed. "Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice too similar. Not players who dictate and distribute ball across pitch. Team lacks true playmaker. To break defense, need movement. Off-ball runs stretch defensive systems. Only way to beat defense."
Merson emphasized fans now see value of Cole Palmer and Phil Foden—two attacking midfielders not called up for World Cup 2026—to create sparks.
Coach Thomas Tuchel reacts during match. Photo: Reuters
Despite unconvincing display, Merson insists England must support Tuchel. He predicts "Three Lions" will not rotate much in final group match against Panama on June 27, as qualification not guaranteed, and team needs to maintain rhythm and win again.
"Football has ups and downs. Croatia attacked and paid price, Ghana never chose that. Panama will not play high line against England either," Merson said. "England must regain winning momentum. Team needs stability and continuity, not changing five or six positions. Avoid repeating poor Ghana performance. Crucial to enter round of 16 with confidence."
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