England are preparing for a EUROs quarter-final clash against Switzerland but much has been made of how Gareth Southgate will line his side up,
Despite being the pre-tournament favourites, the Three Lions have so far flattered to deceive.
Although the nation topped Group C and overcame Slovakia in the Last 16 knockouts, the nature of the side’s performances, as well as Southgate’s obvious tactical mishaps, have seen the team come under fire.
And now preparing for a mammoth quarter-final matchup against a very well-organised Switzerland, led by talisman Granit Xhaka, England know they will need to put in their best performance if they’re to book a place in the tournament’s semi-finals.
Predicted England lineup vs. Switzerland
It isn’t going to be straightforward though. Not only do the Swiss possess huge threats, England have been forced into rethinking their tactical setup after centre-back Marc Guehi was ruled out following a suspension-determining yellow card against Slovakia.
Consequently, Southgate has been left with no choice but to rejig his backline, but according to recent reports, the 53-year-old is seriously considering taking the opportunity to overhaul his entire system.
Expected to change to five-at-the-back, including playing Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka at left wing-back, Southgate, according to the Independent, is set to revamp his starting 11.
Although the England manager’s final decision is not yet known, according to Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett, Southgate, as well as opting for three centre-backs, is likely to play Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham both as number 10s. Should these reports prove accurate, England’s starting lineup could look like this…
Lewis Dunk’s possible inclusion will certainly raise eyebrows, but there are rumours Southgate is concerned with introducing Ezri Konsa into such a high-pressured environment.
Elsewhere, although many fans, especially those of Chelsea, will be calling for Cole Palmer to start in place of Saka on the right-wing, a system featuring five defenders allows for very little wide attacking fluidity. Therefore, Palmer is more likely to start on the bench again.
There could, however, be consecutive starts for Manchester United young gun Kobbie Mainoo. The teenager impressed during his first start against Slovakia and would consider himself unlucky if he were to be dropped back to the bench.
Harry Kane, excluding any late injury concerns, is nailed on to keep his place in attack.
Unbalanced, no right winger. England will loose, and loose heavily I’m afraid. Bellingham and no goal contribution Foden running the same channels bumping into one another and a wide open space on the right. Easy for Switzerland to defend against. Southgates last game as England manager, thanks to his obsession with playing Foden.