In tournaments gone by, a general concern has built-up around England\u2019s lack of top-class creative midfield options. Although Ross Barkley, Jesse Lingard and Dele Alli have acquitted themselves well in recent years, an emerging crop of youngsters are hitting top gear as we approach Euro 2020. In the midst of excellent domestic campaigns, the likes of James Maddison, Jack Grealish and Mason Mount will all be vying for a starting spot, leaving Gareth Southgate with a welcome dilemma as he decides on his main man for the England midfield.<\/p>\n
Prospective entrants to the England midfield are unlikely to do so at the expense of Jordan Henderson. The 29-year-old Liverpool<\/a> captain is hitting his peak as captain of the most fearsome English club side in recent memory. Having visibly matured in recent years, Henderson\u2019s winning mentality, big-game pedigree and calming presence in the middle of the park serve to make him England\u2019s undisputed midfield general in games to come.<\/p>\n Those chosen to flank Henderson will largely depend on the calibre of opponent. Declan Rice or Eric Dier, both centre-backs by trade, would bring solidity against those who can hurt England offensively. However, their respective lack of ability to venture forward and carve teams open render this approach slightly pessimistic.<\/p>\n In light of this, 24-year-old Harry Winks may be a more desirable compromise. Into his fourth season as a Tottenham Hotspur<\/a> regular, Winks\u2019 progressive passing from a deep midfield role has increasingly caught the eye of those in the top-flight. Rarely one to stray too far upfield, Winks provides an attractive middle ground through which England can remain defensively stable but provide adequate service for star players further forward. Whether Southgate fancies this midfield dynamic is another question, yet Winks provides a unique balance that earns him the recommendation.<\/p>\n Henderson and Winks\u2019 defensive capabilities leave room for a third, more attacking option to complete the midfield trio. By my estimation, six young Englishmen have a shot at cementing their spot in time for summer.<\/p>\n Jose Mourinho\u2019s shock appointment as Spurs manager has coincided with Dele Alli\u2019s resurrection as a Premier League force. Twenty-three-year-old Alli has finally remembered where the net is, and his current form undoubtedly thrusts him back into Southgate\u2019s thoughts. Alli\u2019s lack of effectiveness in a midfield-three does, however, create cause for concern. Having earned his stripes as a distinct number ten at Spurs, Southgate would be well-advised to look elsewhere.<\/p>\n Fan-favourite Jack Grealish has been putting up impressive numbers whilst dragging Aston Villa<\/a> through games this season. After contributing to 12 goals in 23 league games, talk has intensified about his long-awaited England call up. His raw talent is clear to see, but he remains a gamble. His recent Villa heroics have come largely from the wing, and his inexperience on the global stage suggests that the tournament may just come too soon for him.<\/p>\nThe Vacancy<\/h3>\n
The Candidates<\/h4>\n