Anthony Barry explains England’s new role for Jude Bellingham
England’s 7-0 win over Croatia offered an early indication of how Thomas Tuchel’s staff intend to use Jude Bellingham: not as a fixed midfielder, but as a player given licence to influence every phase of the attack.
Coach Anthony Barry said the shape has been designed to give Bellingham greater freedom to read the game and arrive in the areas where he feels he can cause most damage. The approach follows the midfielder’s major influence at the World Cup and aims to make full use of a player capable of operating across the pitch.
Bellingham given freedom to roam
Bellingham wore No. 22 at Birmingham City because he was viewed as a blend of a No. 4, an No. 8 and a No. 10. England’s coaching staff are seeking to apply that idea within one system, rather than limiting him to a single midfield assignment.
Barry said the current structure gives Bellingham more scope to play on instinct instead of being restricted to a defined zone. The intention is to let him move into dangerous spaces while ensuring the side retain enough organisation around him.
He described finding the right role as a challenge because Bellingham can perform to a high level in so many positions, including at No. 6. Barry pointed to past England midfielders such as Steven Gerrard and Paul Scholes, who were also able to play in several roles. Scholes featured as a defensive midfielder, an attacking midfielder and on the left during his career.
For Barry, the task is to create a framework in which Bellingham can show that range during the same match. He said the early evidence suggests England have found a way to release more of the Real Madrid player’s potential, while stressing that the work must continue.
Principles behind England’s fluidity
The coaching staff’s plans extend beyond Bellingham. England are moving towards a model built on broad principles, allowing players to exchange positions and react to the changing pattern of a match.
Barry warned that flexibility requires strong foundations, particularly at international level, where training time is limited. Without clear principles, he said, a fluid system can quickly become disjointed.
England believe they have the personnel to make the approach work. Harry Kane and Bellingham are being trusted to move across the frontline and use their understanding of space, while the squad also has pace and penetration from wide players and full-backs.
In midfield, Elliot Anderson, Alex Scott and Declan Rice were highlighted as players willing to cover ground and rotate positions. Barry also praised Kane’s finishing, calling him the finest striker of a ball he has worked with.
Czechia next at Wembley
England will have another opportunity to develop the system when Czechia visit Wembley. The fixture forms part of the longer preparation towards Euro 2028, with Tuchel’s staff looking to turn the encouraging display against Croatia into a more established identity.
