Freeman Potential Move to Centre: A Game-Changer for England in the Six Nations

As England prepares for their crucial Six Nations clash against Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, one player has been making waves with the possibility of a positional shift. Tommy Freeman, who has been a consistent and dynamic presence on the wing for England, has revealed that moving to the centre is “definitely on the cards.” The 24-year-old’s versatility has been showcased both for his club, Northampton, and the national team, as he has frequently shifted to outside centre during recent games. This shift comes in the wake of key injuries in England’s midfield, and Freeman’s readiness to adapt could provide England with a much-needed tactical advantage.

Freeman Versatility: Wing to Centre

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Tommy Freeman’s adaptability has caught the attention of England’s coaching staff and fans alike. While all 19 of Freeman’s Test appearances to date have been on the wing, his versatility has made him a strong candidate for a move into the centre, a position he has played for Northampton with great success. Freeman’s ability to adapt quickly to different roles, especially in high-pressure situations like the Champions Cup semi-final against Leinster, has made him one of England’s most exciting players.

Freeman’s move to the centre would fill a gap in England’s midfield, especially after the unfortunate injury to Ollie Lawrence. Lawrence, who has been England’s first-choice 13, sustained a season-ending Achilles tendon injury during England’s win over Italy in the Six Nations. With the team also lacking a powerful, gainline-breaking runner like Manu Tuilagi, who moved to French side Bayonne in 2024, Freeman’s potential shift to the midfield seems like a natural progression.

“I have trained there and, in the week, I make sure I know all the roles there,” Freeman said, reflecting on his time in the centre. “It is definitely on the cards. That option is there.”

Freeman’s Mindset: A Short-Term Switch or Long-Term Transition?

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Although Freeman is open to playing in the centre, he has made it clear that he doesn’t see it as a permanent shift at this stage in his career. “Not right now,” Freeman said when asked if he considered the centre position a long-term switch. Despite this, Freeman admitted that there were aspects of playing in the centre that he finds more enjoyable than his usual position on the wing. “You get a lot more touches being one in, and I like to create things as much as finish them,” Freeman explained.

The move to centre could give Freeman more opportunities to influence the game and get involved in more attacking plays. In the wing position, he’s often tasked with finishing chances, but in the centre, he would have more responsibility in orchestrating play and creating opportunities for others. Given Freeman’s exceptional skill set and his current form, it seems like a position that could suit him well as he continues to develop as a player.

Freeman’s Impact on England’s Six Nations Campaign

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Freeman’s current form in the Six Nations has been nothing short of outstanding. He has scored in every match of the competition so far, including crucial tries that have helped keep England in contention for the title. If Freeman manages to score again against Wales on Saturday, he will become the first English player in history to score in every round of a Six Nations campaign.

This is a remarkable feat, especially considering the level of competition in the Six Nations. France wing Philippe Bernat-Salles is the only player to have achieved this since Italy’s inclusion in the competition in 2000. Freeman is keenly aware of the opportunity ahead of him and is determined to make the most of it.

“Hopefully, the tries come off the back of it,” Freeman said. “If we get our game on, and hopefully the tries come off the back of it. If that puts some sort of pressure on the other teams, then that is a win.”

This mentality reflects Freeman’s focused and determined approach, not only for the match against Wales but for the remainder of the Six Nations tournament. England is determined to reach the top of the table, and Freeman’s scoring contributions will be pivotal in achieving that goal.

Freeman’s First Test at the Principality Stadium

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This Saturday’s game against Wales marks Freeman’s first experience of playing at the Principality Stadium for England. The stadium is known for its electric atmosphere, with the roof often closed, creating a cauldron of noise that can be intimidating for visiting teams. Freeman, however, is excited for the challenge.

“Having spoken to the lads about it, I know it is an awesome place to go, the crowd is electric with the roof on,” Freeman said. “I am really buzzing for it.”

For Freeman, the match at the Principality Stadium is not only about the rugby itself but also about embracing the intensity and history of the rivalry between England and Wales. A win in Cardiff would provide a huge morale boost for the team and could also see England move to the top of the Six Nations table, depending on the outcome of other fixtures.

England’s Strategy Against Wales: Aiming for More Than a Win

While the win itself is the primary goal for England in their upcoming game against Wales, Freeman revealed that the team’s approach would not be influenced by a desire to secure a four-try bonus point. With France currently leading the Six Nations by a single point, and Ireland just behind, England knows they must secure victory to keep their title hopes alive.

“I don’t think it influences us as players,” Freeman said. “We know what we can control. We are aggressive with the ball and run with intent, that is all we can do, what happens happens.”

England’s approach has been to focus on their own game, running with intensity and creating scoring opportunities as they arise. Freeman’s emphasis on controlling what the team can control shows a mature and focused mindset as England gears up for what promises to be an intense encounter in Cardiff.

Freeman’s Unique Contribution to England’s Preparation

In an amusing twist to England’s preparations for the game, Freeman has also been called upon to showcase his rapping skills. According to Freeman, head coach Steve Borthwick asked the team about certain “buzzwords” that rhymed and playfully suggested that one of the players should create a rap about the team’s preparations. Freeman, who had performed a rap once during his time at Northampton, was the obvious choice.

“At Saints I did a rap once so one of the lads mentioned my name,” Freeman recalled. “So that was last night, stressing, sorting this rap out. I did it this morning about our collision skills. It went down great, I ended up tearing into everyone and then tearing into myself.”

The lighthearted moment added a unique touch to the team’s build-up, showing Freeman’s personality and how he can bring energy to the group in ways beyond his on-field performances. It also highlighted the camaraderie within the team, which is a vital part of England’s quest for Six Nations glory.

Conclusion: Freeman’s Future with England

Tommy Freeman’s potential switch to the centre could be a game-changer for England. His current form, combined with his versatility, makes him a key figure in England’s Six Nations campaign. Whether on the wing or in the centre, Freeman’s contributions will be crucial as England aims to top the Six Nations table.

His first match at the Principality Stadium will be a memorable one, and with the possibility of a try-scoring feat in the making, Freeman will be eager to add to his tally. As England continues to chase the title, Freeman’s performance will be pivotal, and his adaptability and focus will make him a valuable asset for Steve Borthwick’s squad.

With the possibility of a long-term move to the centre on the cards, Freeman’s future with England looks promising. Fans can expect more from the young talent as he continues to impress both in his current position and as he explores new opportunities on the field.