England interim manager, Lee Carsley, is contemplating using Jude Bellingham as a false nine against Greece, exploring tactical options with Harry Kane sidelined.
England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, is considering a tactical shift ahead of the upcoming Nations League clash against Greece by trialling Jude Bellingham as a false nine.
With Harry Kane potentially sidelined due to an ankle injury, Carsley is exploring alternatives, including traditional forwards Ollie Watkins and Dominic Solanke.
However, he is giving serious thought to starting Bellingham in the more creative false nine role.
Bellingham has previously excelled in this position for Real Madrid, although he has yet to score for the Spanish club this season.
Last year, he managed to net 27 goals for club and country, partly thanks to his effectiveness as a false nine.
If Carsley proceeds with this plan, it would allow creative players like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden to operate from deeper midfield roles, while Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon provide attacking width.
Despite Watkins’ four goals for Aston Villa this season and Solanke’s fine form with Tottenham, Carsley’s decision to potentially field Bellingham in this role shows his willingness to experiment with a flexible tactical setup.
He views this as a chance to integrate England’s top talents, including Palmer and Foden, into a cohesive unit.
With Greece on Thursday and a fixture against Finland shortly after, Carsley is looking to balance his squad while maximising the impact of his key players.
A successful implementation of Bellingham as a false nine could strengthen his bid to become England’s permanent manager.
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