​Manchester United icon waxes lyrical over Real Madrid’s Bellingham: ‘One of the best midfielders in the world’Former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward Javier Hernandez, famously known as Chicharito, has named Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham as a player who deserves even greater appreciation on the global stage. Speaking directly to his former teammate Rio Ferdinand on his podcast, the Mexican striker praised the 23-year-old England international, describing his consistent performances over recent seasons as completely undeniable. Chicharito hails BellinghamHernandez expressed his immense admiration for Bellingham’s overall output, highlighting his unique ability to impact both sides of the pitch. “Underrated player? Jude Bellingham,” Chicharito stated during the discussion. One of the best in the world, reckons Chicharito. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)“In the past 3-4 years, he’s been one of the best midfielders in the world and no one can deny that. He’s just.. wow. And his work rate, too. He plays like a No.10 but defends like a No. 5.”Hernandez also noted that the midfielder’s physical and mental traits make him an ideal asset for Real Madrid’s newly returned head coach, Jose Mourinho. “Now he has Mourinho as well, and Mou loves players like that,” Chicharito added, referring to the Portuguese manager’s well-documented historical preference for industrious, disciplined central players who commit fully to defensive duties. Ferdinand backs Bellingham for Ballon d’Or gloryFormer Manchester United defender Ferdinand fully agreed with Hernandez’s high evaluation of the young midfielder’s qualities. Future Ballon d’Or winner according to Ferdinand. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)Looking ahead to the upcoming stages of the player’s career at the Santiago Bernabéu, the former England international made a definitive prediction regarding his individual potential. “Jude Bellingham? I think he’ll win the Ballon d’Or one day,” Ferdinand responded, backing the midfielder to eventually claim football’s most prestigious individual award.The high-level praise comes at a vital time for Bellingham, who is yet to return for they pre-season training sessions under Mourinho’s direct command after an impressive World Cup campaign, where he helped England finish third and scored six goals. After enduring an up-and-down season last time out, Bellingham will be eager to get things back on track at Real Madrid, while the club are also very much excited to welcome the World Cup-version of their superstar midfielder.