With news that reporters caught a close-up of Ray Lewington’s note pad, we may have gained an insight into how England are expecting to line up in their opening Euro 2016 match against Russia.
The Three Lions have had a solid if unspectacular warm-up for the competition, but this leaked document suggests Roy Hodgson could be ready to go all-out attack in France.
Is this really a likely line up for England? We take a closer look at some of the most intriguing selection decisions here…
Wayne Rooney in midfield
It’s hard to know for sure, but the close-up of this picture surely suggests Wayne Rooney will be played in midfield this summer.
The Manchester United man has largely operated just behind Jamie Vardy and Harry Kane in recent games, but may now be considered for an even deeper role as his name sits alongside the likes of Dele Alli and Eric Dier.
After something of a dry spell in front of goal last season, is this the best way to keep Rooney involved? Even so, should he be involved in the starting XI at all?
Ross Barkley on the right
Not a role we’ve seen him play before, but Hodgson and Lewington seem to have ear-marked Ross Barkley for a role out wide foe Euro 2016.
The Everton man has the pace, skill and flair to play there, but so far in his career he’s definitely been utilised better through the middle.
Still, the lack of experience in that area doesn’t seem to be a big concern here, with Barkley placed ahead of James Milner in the pecking order.
Jordan Henderson on the left
Even more bizarrely, Jordan Henderson has been listed as an option on the left-hand side of midfield.
While Milner is mentioned as an option out wide and centrally, Henderson is only noted down next to Raheem Sterling as a backup option on the left flank.
We’re all for being experimental, Roy, but this may be a bit much.
James Milner uncertainty
Given his form for Liverpool in the second half of the season, you’d think James Milner would be first choice for England this summer.
But from the looks of this team sheet, the 30-year-old is living up to his utility man reputation as he seems to be listed as a backup option both centrally and out wide.
Seems pretty harsh, but that could be the price Milner pays for never quite nailing down a regular position throughout his career.
No Adam Lallana
Sure, Adam Lallana probably wouldn’t expect to be a hugely important figure for England this summer, but doesn’t he at least warrant a mention?
From these notes at least, the versatile Liverpool man is nowhere to be seen.
Considering Henderson is listed ahead of him as an option on the left, Lallana may have a right to feel aggrieved if this turns out to be at all accurate.
MORE : Ronaldo, Ozil & the essential Euro 2016 Fantasy Football picks
Share this with