English Football News: Euro 2024, Champions League, and FIFA World Cup Updates
As England prepare to face Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, manager Gareth Southgate is considering a tactical switch to a back three formation. This potential change comes after England’s narrow victory over Slovakia in the round of 16, where they struggled to create chances until a late equalizer from Jude Bellingham.
Southgate is understood to have experimented with the back-three system during a training session on Wednesday, which could see players like Bukayo Saka deployed in the left wing-back role. The Three Lions have not started with a back three in a major tournament since their defeat to Italy on penalties in the Euro 2020 final three years ago.
“Switzerland’s own use of a back-three system has proved successful so far, with the team reaching the quarter-finals without a single loss. Their impressive 2-0 victory over the reigning Euro 2020 champions, Italy, has highlighted the effectiveness of their tactics.”
The suspension of Marc Guehi for the Switzerland match has also forced Southgate’s hand, with Ezri Konsa and Lewis Dunk among the players who could replace the Crystal Palace defender. A switch to a back three could see the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kieran Trippier featuring as wing-backs, alongside a central defensive trio.
Beyond the Euro 2024 tournament, the football world is also eagerly awaiting the upcoming Champions League season and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Women’s World Cup, scheduled for 2023, and the Africa Cup of Nations standings are also generating significant interest among football fans.
As the Euro 2024 quarter-finals approach, all eyes will be on Southgate’s tactical decisions and whether England can continue their journey towards a first major tournament final since 1966.
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