Jude Bellingham issues passionate defence of Kylian Mbappe from 'over the top' criticism as Real Madrid continue fight to save season

Mbappe has scored nine goals in 17 appearances for Real Madrid this season, but a deeper look into his numbers - he's scored only four goals from open play in La Liga - has contributed to some fierce criticism. Furthermore, Thierry Henry was among those to question the France striker for his struggles playing through the middle.

Nowhere does the spotlight shine brighter than in Madrid and criticism is simply par for the course. Bellingham knows that only too well, but the England midfielder has come to Mbappe's defence by calling the criticism "over the top" and insisting his team-mate is "only going to get better".

"Kylian's been absolutely great coming in. He gets a lot of criticism and it's a bit over the top, for me," Bellingham said ahead of Real Madrid's game against Liverpool in the Champions League. "I think if you look at what he's contributed so far, it's really good. It's scary because I see him every day in training and I know he's only going to get better."

Carlo Ancelotti's side have made a mixed start to their Champions League campaign, losing at home to AC Milan in their most recent outing. They'll hope to get back on track against Arne Slot's flawless Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday evening.