A Blackburn Rovers fan who has been following England in the Euros is hoping Jude Bellingham’s late goal can spark the team into life.

Paul Clegg has been a Rovers fan for 50 years and has followed England to four World Cups, and was back on the road this summer.

In Germany he has visited six host cities and watched on as Jude Bellingham produced a moment of magic to keep England in the tournament. An extra-time winner by captain Harry Kane saw the side survive a huge scare and beat Slovakia in dramatic fashion.

Speaking from Gelsenkirchen he said: “Well, we haven't been setting the world alight but we're in the quarter-final.

“I've seen young players with fear in their eyes playing for England in the past and I'm afraid I am starting to see it again.

“We put too much pressure on young shoulders, a few poor performances and the country crushes them, press, pundits even supporters out here.

“Hopefully, Bellingham’s goal sparks a change.

“Walking away from the stadium last night felt the whole world was a different place. That's what it means."

(Image: Nq/LT) Paul with his famous Rovers flag

Paul felt there was certainly room for changes in the side.

He said: “We are crying out for a forward passing midfielder who's fearless, hungry, and has bags of ability.

“I think that man is Adam Wharton. Hopefully he gets his chance. Apart from that, I believe the win against Slovakia and the manner we did it will give the whole squad confidence to play freely and show the quality we undoubtedly have.

“Southgate reconnected the fans with the players in 2018, but he almost lost that. But I believe last night's win pulls everyone together again to push on and I really do believe it is our time.”

(Image: Nq/LT) Paul said getting around Germany had not been easy

Paul revealed there had been issues for fans getting around Germany and this could be improved further.

He said: “Germany is a lovely place with really friendly atmosphere all over. 

“The one downside is the transport system is not functioning, it's broken, loads of trains cancelled, loads of delays, changing platforms at short notice and not telling anyone, 

“First game in Gelsenkirchen was a nightmare and could quite easily have been a disaster with fans trying to back their digs and not enough trains or trams. Bit better yesterday, but I believe that's because the English FA, and UEFA stepped in to improve the situation.”

Paul will now head on to the quarter-final clash with a talented Switzerland on Saturday.

He added: “Yes, I am going on to Düsseldorf. Just don't put us through that again!"