Football News: England Set to Switch Formation for Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals
As the highly anticipated Euro 2024 tournament reaches the quarter-final stage, England is poised to make a tactical shift in their lineup. According to reports, manager Gareth Southgate is considering switching to a back-three formation for their match against Switzerland on Saturday.
The decision comes after it has become clear that England has struggled with balance throughout the European Championship so far. The combination of Kieran Trippier and Phil Foden has not provided the desired attacking threat, leading Southgate to explore alternative options.
The potential formation change could see Ezri Konsa replace the suspended Marc Guéhi on the left of the central defense, with John Stones in the middle and Kyle Walker on the right. This adjustment would allow Bukayo Saka to operate as a left wing-back, providing much-needed width and dynamism on that flank.
“Trippier is a vastly experienced defender, but on the left, he has struggled going forward,” explained football pundit and analyst. “Having a more natural balance would be advantageous for England.”
The move to a back-three system could also benefit the partnership between Saka and Konsa, who often train together and have developed a strong understanding.
“Saka can concentrate on attacking, knowing he has a good one-v-one defender behind him,” the analyst added.
England’s struggles to break down their opponents have been evident, with the team often relying on set-pieces to score. The new formation could allow them to generate a more consistent wide threat, which could in turn create more space for the likes of Foden and Jude Bellingham to operate in the central areas.
“Harry Kane does not possess the pace to make going over the top a legitimate strategy, so width is the way to go,” the analyst suggested.
As the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 approach, all eyes will be on Southgate’s tactical decisions and whether the potential formation change can unlock England’s attacking potential and propel them towards the semi-finals.
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