ROY HODGSON wants Adam Lallana to become a Euro star — but that is bad news for Raheem Sterling.
Lallana has been identified as the man to play in a 4-3-3 up front alongside Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney.
England’s second warm-up match against Australia in Sunderland on Friday is set to see Lallana handed his 22nd international appearance.
Hodgson used two different systems in the 2-1 win over Turkey — a 4-1-4-1 and midfield diamond.
But the Three Lions boss is still leaning towards a front three with Lallana, 28, wide left for the first game against Russia on June 11.
Manchester City winger Sterling, 21, once again struggled against the Turks and is now fighting to remain in the squad, let alone start the first game of the tournament.
Lallana, who missed Sunday after playing for Liverpool in the Europa League final, has been in top form.
Hodgson’s preferred midfield three for the tournament would be Dele Alli, Eric Dier and Jack Wilshere but concerns remain over the Arsenal star’s lack of match fitness.
Hodgson’s biggest quandary is at full-back. There is little to choose between Kyle Walker and Nathaniel Clyne on the right and Danny Rose and Ryan Bertrand battling out left.
Chris Smalling and Gary Cahill are certain to be in central defence for England’s opener in Marseilles.
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