JUDE BELLINGHAM took up a new role during Real Madrid’s thrilling Champions League win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old has firmly put himself in Ballon d’Or contention since joining Los Blancos in a £115million transfer last summer.
In 39 appearances across all competitions this season Bellingham has scored 22 goals and provided 10 assists, making him one of the most in-form players in Europe.
On most occasions, the England star has been pulling the strings in the centre of midfield – making his goalscoring exploits all the more impressive.
However, during Wednesday’s crucial second-leg clash with Bayern Munich he appeared to shift over to the left.
While Real Madrid were out of possession, he would move out to the left in a 4-4-2 formation with Vinicius Jr cutting inside to play as a second striker.
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And when Los Blancos were in possession, the midfielder would return to the centre.
The change evidently worked as Carlo Ancelotti’s side went on to win 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
But Bellingham’s new role could be a penny for Gareth Southgate’s thoughts ahead of Euro 2024.
The England boss could decide to play him on the left when the Three Lions take to Germany this summer.
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That could open up a spot in midfield for either Cole Palmer or Kobbie Mainoo, both of whom have been breakthrough stars in the Premier League this season.
It could also present an opportunity for Southgate to start a second striker should he decide to try a 4-4-2 formation, meaning Ollie Watkins or Ivan Toney could be given a chance alongside captain Harry Kane.
Alternatively, the England boss could play it safe by sticking with what he knows – keeping the Madrid magician in the centre of midfield alongside Arsenal ace Declan Rice.
That could see Phil Foden line up in the No10 position or on the left wing, with Kane and Bukayo Saka completing the attack.
Speaking after Real Madrid’s win over Bayern, Bellingham told TNT Spors: “There have been a lot of times we have looked dead and buried, but we have that mentality of never say die.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
