Top five Under-23 players at the 2018 World Cup

Dele Alli

Alli had an interesting season because he played well, but it wasn’t as impressive as the last two seasons domestically based on numbers. He scored nine times as well as assisting ten in 2972 league minutes. However, he was excellent in the Champions League with two goals and fours assists in 427 minutes. He missed the first three group games through suspension, so his statistics could have been even better.

His performance level with Tottenham is yet to be replicated with England because he has only two goals and four assists in 1505 minutes. Although he has a manager in Gareth Southgate who understands him and the team well. Southgate’s use of a fluid 3-5-2 formation means that Alli is likely to be competing with Jesse Lingard for the starting role. Although there is a sense that the England manager is willing to be tactically versatile and could have a few surprises up his sleeve.

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The 22-year-old seems to be going into this tournament slightly under the radar due to some of the other talents in the team. This is in complete contrast to the 2016 Euros where he was seen as the next young English hope. The lack of external attention could suit him on and off the pitch. There is less pressure on him to succeed, although there is still a certain level of that for English players.

On the pitch is the most important, though, because he might not be seen as a priority threat. This is ideal because his off the ball work is his best asset. He frequently finds himself in dangerous positions due to intelligent movement. Therefore, he could act as a late threat into the box both aerially and on the ground.