False nines or firing forwards - England's potential life after Kane
Are England facing the prospect of using a false nine up front once record scorer Harry Kane calls time on his international career?
England's potential life after Harry Kane is a pressing concern for the team's fans and coaches alike. As the team's record scorer, Kane's contributions on and off the pitch will be difficult to replace. The question of who will lead the line for England in the future is a complex one, with some suggesting that the team may adopt a false nine strategy. This approach, popularized by teams like Barcelona and Manchester City, involves a striker who drops deep and creates space for others to make runs, rather than acting as a traditional target man.
The use of a false nine would require significant adjustments from England's current crop of strikers, who have largely been reliant on Kane's goalscoring prowess. Players like Ollie Watkins, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Ivan Toney will need to adapt their game to fit this new role, which could be a challenge. However, it's worth noting that England have already shown a willingness to experiment with different formations and tactics under manager Gareth Southgate. The team's success in the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020 suggests that they have the talent and flexibility to adapt to a new approach.
As England prepare for life after Kane, it's worth keeping an eye on how the team's strikers develop in the coming months and years. Will they be able to adapt to a new role, or will England look to recruit a traditional number nine to lead the line? The answer will have significant implications for the team's chances of success in major tournaments. With the World Cup and Euros on the horizon, England's coaching staff will be working hard to find a solution that works, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how it all plays out.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.