Jude Bellingham faces a ‘time challenge’ to recover for England’s upcoming friendlies, according to Thomas Tuchel.
Thomas Tuchel has expressed uncertainty regarding Jude Bellingham’s fitness for England’s upcoming friendlies next month, indicating that the midfielder is in a “race against time” following a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Real Madrid.
Bellingham was taken off just 10 minutes into Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano on February 1, leaving the pitch in tears, with initial reports to ESPN suggesting that the player would be sidelined for approximately a month.
However, during Thursday’s UEFA Nations League draw, Tuchel mentioned that there are now concerns about whether Bellingham might be out for a longer duration.
“The club [Real Madrid] is somewhat more cautious regarding the timeline for his recovery,” Tuchel stated.
“Jude is making an effort, and as we know him, he is highly motivated and extremely professional.
“He will do everything possible to join us in March. Naturally, we are in communication, which is standard, and we wish him all the best… Whatever assistance we can provide, we will offer our support. It is indeed a bit of a race against time.”
England is scheduled to face Uruguay on March 27 and Japan on March 31, with both matches taking place at Wembley, as they prepare for this summer’s World Cup.
“Personally, I am hopeful [about Bellingham’s fitness],” Tuchel added. “But I am not certain.”
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Bellingham last represented England in November, where he played 25 minutes as a substitute against Serbia and 84 minutes against Albania.
Over the past year, he has faced competition for a spot in Tuchel’s starting lineup from players such as Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.
Bellingham experienced another injury setback earlier this season while recovering from shoulder surgery but has still participated in 18 of Madrid’s LaLiga matches this season.
