Jude Bellingham as a striker?! Real Madrid star tipped for positional shift by England legend Gary Lineker

The England international’s reputation has been forged in the middle of the park, with Bellingham’s work rate, passing range and eye for goal being put to good use in a deep-lying role. He has, however, shown his creativity as a No.10 and could be pushed even further up the field in future.

Bellingham is staking a serious claim to be used as a forward after finding the target on 11 occasions through 12 appearances for Real Madrid in all competitions this season. He has been used as a ‘false nine’ by the Liga giants at times and Lineker believes the hottest of prospects can do any job asked of him.

Ex-England striker Lineker has told The Sun ahead of seeing his former club Barcelona take on Bellingham and Madrid in El Clasico on Saturday: “The way he has started at Real gives Gareth Southgate a great option. If something happens to Harry Kane - or after he is finished because Harry is now 30 - Jude could play at centre-forward, as a false nine if you like. He is now scoring poacher’s goals. He’s even doing the ‘easy’ bits that I used to do! He has been playing as a No. 10 for England in his last few games. He can play in a deeper role as a No 8, he is probably the most complete English footballer I’ve ever seen and he’s only 20. No-one knows what Jude’s best position is because he is so good in several roles but I could see him playing up front for England.”

Bellingham has earned 27 caps for the Three Lions, but has only two international goals to his name. He will want to improve that tally as England begin to draw up plans for another shot at major silverware next summer at Euro 2024.