Sol Campbell has named his preferred England line-up, without Tottenham’s Dele Alli.
Sol Campbell
Former England defender Sol Campbell has told Sport Lobster that he would leave Dele Alli on the bench this summer if he was in charge of team selection.
The ex-Spurs and Arsenal centre-back believes Alli will have more of an impact as a substitute, and that Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney should take his spot in midfield.
England’s Dele Alli during training
Speaking at the launch of Sport Lobster’s €1 million Euros Predictor challenge, Campbell named his preferred line up for Euro 2016.
He said: “I’ve put Rooney in the middle instead of Dele Alli. For me Rooney has to play and a role in midfield should suit his game more, particularly now that they have Kane and Vardy as genuine strikers who are bang in form.
“I’d use Alli as an impact sub. His ability to create something special and massive work rate could help England turn matches around or give them a well-timed energy boost if they’re holding on.”
Wayne Rooney celebrates with Jordan Henderson (R) and Marcus Rashford (L) after scoring the second goal for England
After scoring on his debut for England against France last year, Alli has been considered a strong contender for a starting spot, but Rooney’s emergence as a midfielder certainly threatens that.
One alternative option is that England play both, but they may have to sacrifice Jamie Vardy starting to do so.
Campbell did name three of Alli’s Tottenham teammates in his preferred team, picking Danny Rose, Kyle Walker and Eric Dier.
Tottenham’s Dele Alli during a lap of honour after the game
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