How the Three Lions could line up after Sturridge is ruled out.
The FA have confirmed that England manager Roy Hodgson has been dealt a significant blow, with star striker Daniel Sturridge ruled out of Monday evening’s European Championship qualifier against Switzerland in Basel, leading to a potential rethink for the Three Lions.
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Sturridge was one of England’s most impressive performers in their turgid midweek win over Norway at Wembley, with captain Wayne Rooney struggling for involvement, meaning that Hodgson is likely to have had to rip up his plans after the Liverpool man was ruled out.
It could even lead to a change from Hodgson’s regular 4-4-2 system, based on Sturridge partnering Rooney in attack, with a switch back to a 4-2-3-1 system a potential option for England, who could line up like this:
Goalkeeper – Joe Hart
The Manchester City goalkeeper has firmly established himself as the England number one under Hodgson.
Right Back – John Stones
The young Everton defender showed enough against Norway to keep his place for a competitive bow in Basel.
Centre Back – Gary Cahill
Had one shaky moment against Norway when he underhit a backpass, but is Hodgson’s most reliable central defender.
Centre Back – Phil Jones
Didn’t put a foot wrong against Norway in the week and should keep his place – appears to have replaced Phil Jagielka as first choice at the heart of defence.
Left Back – Leighton Baines
With Ashley Cole out of the picture and Luke Shaw injured, Everton star and set-piece specialist Leighton Baines is the obvious choice at left back.
Central Midfielder – Jordan Henderson
Has started the season well for Liverpool and is now a key component for both club and country.
Central Midfielder – Jack Wilshere
Looked much more confident on Wednesday evening than he has when pulling on an Arsenal shirt at the start of this season.
Attacking Right Midfielder – Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Was given a start against Norway and, despite a quiet evening, Hodgson seems to be a big fan of the Arsenal man.
Attacking Central Midfielder – Raheem Sterling
Hodgson may change his team’s shape to allow him to play Liverpool wonderkid Raheem Sterling through the middle, where the teenager looks so dangerous.
Attacking Left Midfielder – Danny Welbeck
Has moved to Arsenal for more opportunities upfront, buy may well be shifted back out to the wing by Hodgson to accommodate Sterling centrally – will be Sturridge’s direct replacement.
Striker – Wayne Rooney
As England captain, Rooney should really be undroppable – the Manchester United man needs a performance to prove that is the case, however.