Rio Ferdinand left stunned when Martin Keown made Bellingham's awkward admission
MARTIN KEOWN has revealed he “wonders” whether Jude Bellingham can be considered world class.
The former Arsenal defender, 57, appeared alongside Rio Ferdinand in TNT Sports' Champions League coverage this evening.
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Manchester United legend Ferdinand, 45, recently angered Gunners fans by claiming Bukayo Saka is NOT world class, but that's Phil Foden.
Popular presenter and Gooner Laura Woods asked Ferdinand to compile a list of players he considers world class.
The list included Ederson, Alisson, Kyle Walker, Virgil van Dijk, Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Mo Salah, Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Bellingham.
Ferdinand asked fellow expert Keown if he disagreed with any of his choices.
Keown replied: “Bellingham would be someone I would question.
“Of course he is a great footballer with what he is doing at the moment with Real Madrid, but Saka has been England's Player of the Year for the last two years. Bellingham has not paid attention to that.
“He's still on the Rio list, maybe he's a bit naughty.”
In response, Ferdinand explained: “For me it's time, I think he's in world-class form, but he needs that time.
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“Saka has world-class potential but he has not been exposed to the knockout stages of the Champions League, the longevity that makes the difference.
“All the other players on that list have been at the top of the most prestigious games and produced at those times.”
Joining the debate, Ally McCoist added: 'The most important factor in being world class is brilliance and trophies, but the key to that is longevity.
“Guys are able to have world-class moments or periods in their careers.
“Right now, Saka and Bellingham are hoping for world-class moments and hopefully can be described as world-class at the end of their careers.”
The gang then witnessed Saka and Co lose 1-0 to Porto in their Champions League round of 16 first leg match.
With the Gunners having failed to break down their well-organised opponents, Galeno struck in the 94th minute to give Porto a precious lead going into the second leg.
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