Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
POSSIBLE
tying Alli down to a new contract, which would be a big help because it would stop talk of Madrid and Barcelona – and get his feet back on the ground.
Alli has also struggled to get his best form for England and Southgate must find the best way to use his most exciting talent. IS there a way back for Jack Wilshere? England’s midfield against Slovenia was awful, the partnership of Eric Dier and Jordan Henderson just didn’t gel. Dier was given a chasing, Henderson had an off night.
But more than anything, England lacked the craft of a top-quality passer, someone to unlock the opposition with a through ball. It once again raised the issue of Wilshere, who has been on the comeback trail with Arsenal although he has yet to start a Premier League game this season.
Can Southgate see Wilshere getting back in?
“Well, we are in a position where there is no way we would dismiss any creative player but, of course, people have to be playing and they have to be playing at a good level,” said Southgate.
That has effectively opened the door for Wilshere. Adam Lallana will come back after injury. But England need more quality, and if Wilshere can prove his fitness then he may have a chance. KANE is England’s best hope, he at least is scoring.
But do England have a Plan B in case the worst happens? Daniel Sturridge (right, top) is terrific but not playing regularly. Jamie Vardy (right, centre) has struggled with injuries. Jermain Defoe (right, bottom) has dipped at Bournemouth. Then what? England need options to avoid Kane’s fitness becoming a national obsession.
The other concern is players not appearing regularly. Eric Dier, for example, may lose his place at Spurs when Victor Wanyama is fit again and then England are stuck. ENGLAND are close to signing a contract for a base in Russia – the Forrestmix Club 20 minutes outside St Petersburg. It is a luxury hotel and spa but without the lavish trappings of the past which indulged the superstar egos and their WAGS. If there is a desire to keep it simple, Southgate is on the right lines. “We’ve had a look at a few different bases, we’ve got a couple of different options but we’re happy with all of those options. The most important thing is to have a base which is exclusively ours. It gives the players a chance to relax, it’s important, I want their families to be able to come in at the right moments.
“Base camps don’t win tournaments, environment can play a part, but tactical, technical ability on the field will win it.
“I think we will create a base camp that the players enjoy, with an atmosphere they will enjoy being a part of. They are going to have a fantastic life experience.” LAST time it was Marcus Rashford. He burst onto the scene in February last year and four months later went to the Euros.
Is there an outsider this time? There are three players on the fringes with a genuine chance. Harry Winks (right, top) was drafted into the senior squad for his passing and control in midfield. With England short of options, he has a shot.
Southampton winger Nathan Redmond (right) has been in squads under Southgate. If he can find top form he must be considered with Alex Oxladechamberlain struggling.
Watford midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah (right) is the anchorman Southgate wants. Having fractured a kneecap he is short of time, but if fit, he will be in.