John Stones has emerged as England's emergency midfield option as Thomas Tuchel prepares for Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Norway.
The Three Lions are dealing with a growing selection headache after Jordan Henderson was effectively ruled out of the rest of the tournament following his freak arm injury in the aftermath of the dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico.
Henderson was hurt while jumping over the advertising boards after the final whistle at the Azteca Stadium, leaving Tuchel short of experienced cover in the middle of the pitch.
That could open the door for Stones to be used in an unfamiliar role if England suffer any further setbacks.
The 32-year-old is primarily a centre-back, but he has previously operated as a defensive midfielder and was outstanding in that hybrid role for Manchester City during their 2023 Champions League final win over Inter Milan.
Tuchel has already made it clear he views Stones as a possible option in that area.
When naming his 26-man squad in May, the England boss said: "I think John Stones can play as a number six for us."
Elliot Anderson is currently expected to continue in midfield, but Stones could become the back-up plan if the Nottingham Forest star suffers a problem.
John Stones has emerged as England's emergency midfield option as Thomas Tuchel prepares for Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Norway
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Reece James is another player capable of stepping into midfield, though he may be needed at right-back in Miami if he recovers from injury in time, with Jarell Quansah suspended for the Norway match.
Kobbie Mainoo is also available, but he is seen as a more natural alternative to Declan Rice, who has been managing hamstring concerns during the tournament.
Stones won his 92nd England cap against Mexico after coming on as a 57th-minute substitute for Bukayo Saka.
He impressed as part of a back five as England dug deep to survive a ferocious Mexican fightback and secure their place in the last eight.
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England's record at the World Cup | GETTY/ GB NEWSEzri Konsa and Marc Guehi are expected to remain in central defence against Norway, meaning Stones may once again be asked to provide cover in a different role if Tuchel needs to reshape his side.
The former Manchester City defender is currently without a club after leaving the Etihad and has endured a frustrating year with form and fitness issues.
The Mexico match was only his 10th appearance of 2026, but Stones insists he is ready to help England however required.
Asked about his condition, he said: "I've been ready to go since earlier this year and not had the opportunity.
"And I always try to be as positive as possible, and put myself in the best condition. I feel great.
"I'm frustrated when they don't play and want to play and I feel like the mentality of the boys that don't is incredible and that's something that is rare within the tournament.
John Stones impressed off the bench in England's World Cup win over Mexico
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"You're away from family, you're training every day, you're not playing as much as you'd like to.
"And we're all hungry to help, and have all got the same goal in mind to get to that final and see where it takes us, but I feel great, and I'm loving helping and performing the way I did against Mexico."
Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon is expected to keep his place on the left wing after impressing against Mexico.
That means Marcus Rashford likely to remain among the substitutes.