Birmingham City talent Jude Bellingham has been urged to make a ‘footballing decision’ on his future by Sky Sports pundit Keith Andrews, as Manchester United continue to circle the midfielder.

Bellingham has emerged as top talent at St Andrew’s over the course of this season, with the midfielder earning plaudits from across the country for his effort under Pep Clotet.

Reports continue to circle linking Bellingham with a move to Manchester United, with the Premier League giants clearly keen to link up with the teenager whenever the summer transfer window can open.

And, Bellingham’s future has been a topic of discussion for Keith Andrews on Sky, with the pundit urging the Blues talent to make a decision based on his game time rather than anything else. 

Andrews said: “The one thing I would suggest is that it can't be a financial decision at this stage of his career, it has to purely be a footballing decision.  

“Game time is an absolute must. He has to back himself but he also has to be able to think: ‘Where can I, realistically, go to? How high can I play next season?’ to continue that upward trajectory he is on.” 

The 16-year-old has made 32 appearances for Birmingham this year in the Championship, scoring four goals and registering a further two assists for Clotet’s side.

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The Verdict  

Andrews’ advice is spot on: Bellingham needs to make a decision on his future that’s going to aid his development.

Heading to Man United and sitting in their academy or on the bench won’t make him a better player, and neither will going out on loan elsewhere.

This isn’t make or break for Bellingham, he has a number of years to continue to grow and then earn this ‘big’ move.

There’s been numerous examples of a player moving too early in the past and it’d be a shame to see that happen to Bellingham.

Thoughts? Let us know!