Former Three Lions player Danny Murphy has put up an unusual idea in the recent debates about England’s midfield lineup, starting defender John Stones in the middle of the field with Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.
Although Bellingham and Rice are anticipated to start, there is ongoing discussion on who would be their best midfield partner.
Many recommendations point to a dynamic playmaker like as James Maddison or Phil Foden, but England boss Gareth Southgate seems to be leaning more toward conservatism, preferring a No. 8 to connect Rice and Bellingham’s play.
However, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s opportunities in the role have been restricted by injury, while possibilities like Jordan Henderson and Conor Gallagher have had mixed outcomes.
Kobbie Mainoo, a potential for Manchester United, will play alongside Rice in Tuesday night’s friendly against Belgium, demonstrating Southgate’s willingness to try new things.
Murphy, however, is putting out Stones as a compelling substitute, pointing to his skills as an athlete, a tenacious worker, and a passer.
He proposed that Rice and Bellingham would offer Stones the perfect midfield complement if he were to play in a holding role for England.
