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GARETH SOUTHGATE has ordered Jude Bellingham to save his strength so he is “psychologically fresh” to spearhead England’s Euros bid.
Three Lions boss Southgate has given the Real Madrid superstar six days off before he joins up with his squad on Saturday.
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So he will miss Monday’s Euros warm-up against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Newcastle and Friday’s Wembley clash with Iceland.
Bellingham, 20, helped Real win their 15th European Cup with victory over his former team Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on Saturday.
It was the midfielder’s 47th match of the season for club and country — and he was back in Madrid last night for the Champions League celebrations.
Asked about Bellingham’s absence, Southgate said: “The most important thing is rest and recovery and we will benefit from that.
“That is the constraint of international football. You have to work out the most important thing and, for Jude and therefore the team, it is about psychologically switching off and recovering. It’s all about psychological freshness.
“He’s had a fantastic season. To join the biggest club in the world and perform the way he has throughout the season has been incredible for him.”
Bellingham himself hailed the “best night” of his life after teeing up after teeing up Vinicius Junior for Real’s second goal to clinch by far the biggest achievement of his career to date.
The 29-cap star was calm afterwards – until becoming emotional when spotting his family in the crowd.
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He told TNT Sports: “I was alright until I was up in my mum’s and dad’s face… and my little brother who I’m trying to be a role model for.
“The amount of nights where they [his parents] could be at home at 7pm but instead they’re doing trips at 11, 12 at night to take me to football.
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“I can’t have dreamed it much better than this. I just can’t believe it.”
Fans then thronged the streets back in Madrid – saluting their heroes, notably Bellingham for his incredible first season with the Spanish giants.
Bellingham has scored 25 goals this campaign and Southgate added: “I am absolutely delighted for him to win.
“His parents have to take enormous credit because the way he comes across in his interviews is the way he is. He is authentic. That is how he is — every day.”
England team-mate Kieran Trippier, who will captain England tonight because Harry Kane will not be starting, said: “He doesn’t seem like a 20-year-old. He is so mature for his age.
“Jude has pressure playing for Real Madrid and he has taken it in his stride and all the boys are absolutely delighted for him.
“We’re looking forward to meeting up with him and hopefully he can bring that form with him to England.”
“A lot of people are saying I need to show more for my country. I don’t mind the pressure. I feel like I can definitely be a lot better for the national team.
Phil Foden
Phil Foden knows the spotlight will also be on him at Euro 2024 after an outstanding club season at Manchester City.
And he is determined to prove he can replicate that form for England.
Foden, 24, was named Premier League player of the season after thriving in a more central role.
Speaking after his first session as a McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador, he said: “There’s a lot of pressure on my shoulders.
“A lot of people are saying I need to show more for my country.
“I don’t mind the pressure. I feel like I can definitely be a lot better for the national team.
“I’m so determined now to put on the shirt and prove everyone wrong and try to continue my form.”
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