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Perfect ten

Jordan Henderson believes Dele Alli is ‘perfect’ in the No 10 role with Wayne Rooney dropping deeper in midfield

JORDAN HENDERSON insists the No. 10 role is perfect for Dele Alli after Gareth Southgate played the Tottenham youngster behind Daniel Sturridge for England.

With Alli being pushed up the field, it meant Wayne Rooney was dropped further back in midfield to play alongside Henderson, in the Three Lions' 2-0 over Malta.

England v Malta - 2018 World Cup Qualifying European Zone - Group F
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Henderson believes Dele Alli is 'perfect' for the No. 10 roleCredit: Reuters
Dele Alli is the future in the No.10 role
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Dele Alli was impressive playing in behind striker against MaltaCredit: PA:Press Association

Henderson praised the 20-year-old and believes him in the No 10 and Rooney playing deeper in midfielder could work for the Three Lions.

The Liverpool midfielder said: "It was good. We worked on it during the week, but the No 10 role is perfect for Dele to go affect the game in the space.

"He likes to get on the ball and play one-twos and I thought he was brilliant in that respect, so that's perfect for him."

But Henderson didn't hide from the fact that him and Rooney need to work on their defensive responsibilities when they are both asked to play in centre midfield.

He added: "Me and Wayne need to make sure that we get the ball to him but also thinking about protection when the lads are attacking.

"Like I said that can be better and that is probably one thing we need to work on.

"That when we are going forward that we are protecting the centre halves, but overall we have to be happy with three points."

Wayne Rooney is a shadow of his former self
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Alli playing behind the striker saw Wayne Rooney drop deeper into midfieldCredit: AP:Associated Press


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