Fulham’s rising star Josh King has opened up on his swift integration into the senior England setup, identifying Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham as a key figure in his development. The 19-year-old midfielder was a shock inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s latest squad as the Three Lions prepare for crucial Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain.
Bellingham takes the lead as mentor
The rise of King has been one of the standout stories of the Premier League season so far, and his progression has now been officially recognised on the international stage. While the Fulham teenager had a taste of the senior environment during a pre-World Cup training camp in Florida earlier this year, his inclusion for the upcoming Nations League double-header represents his first competitive call-up. During his time with the group, King has found a supportive environment led by some of the biggest names in world football.
Reflecting on his experiences within the national camp, the versatile midfielder highlighted the influence of England’s established stars. “There were a lot of people I learned from [in the pre-World Cup camp]. Jude was a big person for me. He took me under his wing and tried to make me feel welcome. There were a lot of players like that. Harry Kane as well, he was one person who really made me feel welcome and tried to help me through my time there,” King said, as quoted by The Evening Standard.
