English football legend Wayne Rooney has confirmed that Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham should be a key element in the England national team roster for the 2026 World Cup.

England coach Thomas Tuchel had excluded Bellingham from the last Three Lions camp due to his unfitness after undergoing shoulder surgery in the summer.

Rooney stated in comments reported by British media: "I heard some discussions about Bellingham's participation in the World Cup, but for me, there is no debate about it. When you need a player who makes a difference, he is the right man."

He concluded: "You need a player who can win you matches, a player capable of creating exceptional moments, and Bellingham is the one who possesses that ability."

The young English star has begun to regain his usual form in the Real Madrid jersey in the past few weeks, and he is expected to be present with his national team in the upcoming international break.