Football News: Gareth Southgate Urged to “Take More Risks” Ahead of England’s Euro 2024 Quarter-final Against Switzerland
Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has warned England manager Gareth Southgate that his side will be beaten by Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals if they do not improve their performance levels.
Neville Criticizes England’s Performances
Neville believes England have been “below par” in four of their matches in the tournament so far, and that their luck will eventually run out if they continue to play at the same level. The Three Lions were 86 seconds away from a shock 1-0 elimination to Slovakia in the last 16 before Jude Bellingham’s spectacular overhead kick forced extra-time, where Harry Kane scored the winning goal.
Neville’s Suggestions for Southgate
The former Manchester United and England defender has called on Southgate to “take more risks” in his team selection, suggesting changes such as starting Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, moving Kyle Walker to left-back, and giving opportunities to players like Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon in attack.
Neville emphasized the importance of England raising their performance levels, as they may not be able to rely on luck against a strong Switzerland team, who beat holders Italy in their last-16 clash.
“Winning is everything in tournaments, but performances matter because eventually there’s only so far you can go being the inferior team,” Neville said. “Not playing as well and winning will eventually catch you out, and I think it will catch England out on Saturday if they keep playing at the same level.”
Southgate’s Potential Changes
The former England defender believes Southgate is unlikely to make widespread changes to the starting lineup, as he has been loyal to the same core group of players throughout the tournament. However, Neville suggested that the manager may be forced to make at least one change, with Marc Guehi suspended for the quarter-final.
One potential risk Southgate could take is starting Luke Shaw at left-back, despite the defender’s lack of match fitness after a recent hamstring injury. Neville acknowledged that it would be a “massive risk” but also believes England need to take chances if they want to progress further in the competition.
As the Euro 2024 quarter-finals approach, all eyes will be on Southgate’s team selection and whether he heeds Neville’s advice to “take more risks” in order to secure a place in the semi-finals.
🔗 Source