- Jan 18, 2011
- 8,038
- 9,548
Historically one of England's biggest problems, especially during the 2000's was focusing more about fitting in individuals and not about what was best for the team. Personally I don't give a monkey's whether it gets the very best out of Bellingham as long as the team as a whole benefits from it. Bellingham is 100% better in that 8 role than anything else we have available. IMO the step up from Gallagher or Henderson to Bellingham as an 8 is far greater the drop off from Bellingham to Maddison or Foden as a 10. I don't think it's even debatable to be honest.
These are the defensive stats for Rice, Gallagher, and Bellingham this season. Maybe Rice and Bellingham could be higher if they had a more defensive role in their teams, but it's not really what's getting the best out of either of them for their clubs. Theoretically, you look at Gallagher's stats and think that should free up the other two to do what they do best. Obviously didn't really work last game but I think it's too early to throw out the idea. Personally don't think Foden or Maddison will work in a three. Here, Maddison was at his best when Bissouma and Sarr were behind.
Plus the choice for Foden isn't central or right, it's central or left. And on the left side there's a big drop off in quality too, from Foden to either Rashford or Gordon. So basically we're probably picking one of Gallagher or Rashford to start. Gallagher starting means Bellingham plays his best position, Rashford starting means Foden does. But the latter creates a midfield without the energy to play the high line possession style that Southgate seems to be wanting to play.