Gareth Southgate has hinted that Jordan Henderson and Eric Dier could be fighting over one place in England’s World Cup side and thus the two might not feature in the same match for England.
Both midfielders have captained the side during his reign and, of Southgate’s 16 games in charge, Dier has started 12 and Henderson has started nine.
But Southgate’s desire to play with two attacking options in central midfield – roles filled by Jesse Lingard and Dele Alli in the weekend win over Nigeria – means either Henderson or Dier may miss out on a starting berth.
“I’d be amazed if the two of them aren’t important figures for us during the tournament, but there is clearly the possibility they might not both play in every match,” said Southgate.