Figuring out how to best use Phil Foden at Euro 2024 may be Gareth Southgate's biggest challenge at the upcoming tournament, but Glen Johnson believes he has the answer.
The retired former Liverpool and England full-back insists that Foden and Jude Bellingham can co-exist in the Three Lions' midfield, but it will come down to specific situations to determine how they would be used together.
Speaking to Paddy Power, Johnson explained when and how the young stars would line up alongside each other.
“Whether Phil Foden starts depends on who we’re playing against," Johnson said. "I would definitely let Jude do what he’s best at and that looks like the role he does at Real Madrid.
"I would like to see him start in the number 10 but if that’s going to weaken the midfield then you’d rather have him drop back and play Foden in the number 10.
"It’s a bloody good problem for us to have, but with Bellingham being so vital in that role – and clearly enjoys it – it would be silly to take away some of our own ammo which would benefit other teams.
“With Foden, if he’s starting, he can play out wide or in the 10 and we’re not going to play in a rigid formation. That’ll be the position they stand in for kick off but when the game starts, they’ll move around and move into areas where they can be efficient.”
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