Introduction
As England prepares for their Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland, all eyes are on Gareth Southgate’s tactical decisions. So far, England’s journey through the tournament has been a mix of highs and lows, and now they face a crucial test in the form of the Swiss team. With a spot in the semi-finals on the line, Southgate is planning a significant change in formation to maximize his squad’s strengths and address some of the issues that have plagued their performances.
Tactical Changes for the Quarter-Final
For the first time in a competitive match since the Euro 2020 final against Italy, England is set to employ a back three formation. This tactical shift aims to provide more width and better accommodate some of England’s best players in their preferred positions. The decision comes on the back of mixed results with the current strategies used in the tournament, prompting Southgate to reconsider his approach.
Key Players and Their Roles
Centre-Backs
The three centre-backs likely to start are John Stones, Ezri Konsa, and Kyle Walker. Walker’s inclusion is particularly strategic, given his exceptional pace, which will be crucial in covering defensive lapses and countering Swiss attacks. Stones and Konsa will be tasked with maintaining a solid defensive line and initiating build-up play from the back.
No 10 Roles
Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham are expected to take on dual No 10 roles behind Harry Kane. Southgate has experimented with various formations in training, including 3-4-3, 3-5-2, and 3-4-2-1, to find the best fit for these creative players. This setup aims to enhance England’s attacking creativity and provide more support to Kane.
Midfield Conundrum
A significant challenge for Southgate is selecting the right partner for Declan Rice in central midfield. The decision is crucial to prevent England from being overrun in this area by Switzerland. Options include playing Kobbie Mainoo or Conor Gallagher in a defensive midfield role alongside Rice. While this would provide defensive stability, it might limit offensive options.
Wing-Back Dilemma
The wing-back positions are still up for grabs, with several players in contention. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Bukayo Saka, Kieran Trippier, Luke Shaw, and Eberechi Eze are all potential candidates. Each player brings unique strengths to the role:
- Trent Alexander-Arnold: Known for his crossing ability and attacking prowess.
- Bukayo Saka: Versatile and capable of playing on either wing.
- Kieran Trippier: Reliable and experienced, good at set-pieces.
- Luke Shaw: Despite limited recent playtime, he is keen to prove his fitness and impact.
- Eberechi Eze: Offers creativity and flair, though less experienced in a defensive role.
Southgate’s final decision will hinge on balancing defensive solidity with attacking threat.
Offensive Strategies
Bellingham and Foden’s roles in creating opportunities for Harry Kane will be pivotal. Another possible strategy is pairing Ivan Toney with Kane in a 3-5-2 formation. Toney impressed in extra time against Slovakia, providing an outlet and assisting Kane’s winner. This approach could give England more attacking depth but would likely sideline wingers like Anthony Gordon and Jarrod Bowen.
Game Management and Substitutions
Southgate’s willingness to make bold substitutions has been evident throughout the tournament. His approach to game management will be crucial in the quarter-final, with the flexibility to switch formations and utilize bench players like Cole Palmer. This adaptability could be a key factor in navigating the match against Switzerland.
Conclusion
England’s tactical overhaul for the quarter-final against Switzerland reflects Gareth Southgate’s intent to get the best out of his squad. By shifting to a back three and making strategic adjustments, he aims to address previous shortcomings and provide more width and creativity. As the match approaches, anticipation builds, with fans and pundits alike eager to see how these changes play out on the pitch. A victory would set up a semi-final clash against either the Netherlands or Turkey, bringing England one step closer to the Euro 2024 final in Berlin.
FAQs
Q: Why is Southgate switching to a back three formation?
A: Southgate is switching to a back three to provide more width, better defensive coverage, and to utilize his best players in their preferred positions.
Q: Who are the key players in this new formation?
A: Key players include John Stones, Ezri Konsa, Kyle Walker (centre-backs), Phil Foden, and Jude Bellingham (No 10 roles), and potentially Trent Alexander-Arnold, Bukayo Saka, Kieran Trippier, Luke Shaw, and Eberechi Eze (wing-backs).
Q: What formations is Southgate considering?
A: Southgate has experimented with 3-4-3, 3-5-2, and 3-4-2-1 formations in training to find the best setup for the quarter-final.
Q: How will the midfield be structured?
A: Declan Rice will anchor the midfield, potentially partnered with Kobbie Mainoo or Conor Gallagher in a defensive role to provide stability.
Q: What impact does this change have on England’s attack?
A: The change aims to enhance creativity and support for Harry Kane, with Bellingham and Foden playing behind him. There is also a possibility of pairing Kane with Ivan Toney in a 3-5-2 formation.(FADA888)