Zola jokingly claims he was drinking breast milk at 20, an age Bellingham is already a star

Football legend Gianfranco Zola made a bizarre comment about Jude Bellingham after England’s win over Italy which had the player and pundits in fits of laughter.

Bellingham was interviewed on Channel 4 after another glowing performance for the Three Lions with Zola among the pundits with Joe Cole and Jill Scott.

Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham, 20, won the penalty for England’s equaliser after they went 1-0 down and provided a remarkable assist for Marcus Rashford as Gareth Southgate’s side secured a 3-1 victory to book their spot at Euro 2024.

During his interview with the Channel 4 pundits after the match, Zola chimed in and said: ‘I have to say, it makes me laugh. At 2020 years old

was still drinking milk from my mum!’

The comment saw Bellingham, Zola, Cole, and Scott erupt into laughter and the Italian also made a cheeky remark in regard to his time as Birmingham City boss between 2016 and 2017.

‘Jude, let me ask you… Where were you when I was at Birmingham?’ Zola said. ‘I would have played you when you were 12-years-old!’

Speaking more generally about Bellingham, Zola added: ‘When England were 1-0 down, he was resilient.

‘He was always looking for something to happen. He created the penalty, he created the assist. His qualities are rare in certain players.

‘I am very impressed. The way he speaks is one thing. The things he says are always very balanced and very calm. He said he loves his football, he loves learning, and these are the things you want to hear from young players with talent.

‘It’s the kind of mentality they need to have. I haven’t seen many 20-year-olds with his personality. He is so grounded with clear ideas.’