Gareth Southgate is exploring the possibility of shifting England’s formation to a back three for their upcoming match against Switzerland. The team practiced with a back three during training, marking the first time they have done so under Southgate’s leadership. This tactical adjustment comes as a response to Switzerland’s use of a back three and England’s previous struggles against teams employing the same formation, such as Serbia and Denmark.
One potential change in the new formation is Kyle Walker moving to central defense, with either Kieran Trippier or Trent Alexander-Arnold playing as the right wing-back. In addition, if fit, Bukayo Saka or Luke Shaw could be deployed as the left wing-back. However, there is uncertainty surrounding the availability of Luke Shaw due to injury.
In terms of defensive options, Marc Guehi is suspended, which could open the door for Ezri Konsa to replace him. This change could also be part of a revamped back three, with John Stones in the center and Kyle Walker on the right.
Switching to a back three could provide Southgate with the opportunity to start with two strikers, deviating from his usual preference of playing with two attacking players behind Harry Kane. Fans may witness Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden as two number 10s supporting Kane, with additional attacking threat coming from England’s wing-backs.
However, it’s worth noting that Jude Bellingham could potentially be suspended following his X-rated celebration after the Slovakia game. If this were to occur, Southgate might opt for a 4-3-1-2 formation with Ivan Toney and Kane up front and Foden operating as a No. 10.
England previously utilized a back three during the 2018 World Cup and occasionally during Euro 2020, including in the final. With two more training sessions remaining before the match against Switzerland, the team could ultimately decide to stick with a back four. Nevertheless, it is evident that the possibility of a back three is being seriously considered.
Regarding the potential use of two strikers, Ivan Toney was introduced alongside Kane during the Slovakia game. However, when asked if Southgate had been working on a two-striker system in training, Toney declined to comment, suggesting that the decision lies with the manager. Toney emphasized the team’s focus on studying and preparing for the opposition rather than solely concentrating on specific formations.
In conclusion, Gareth Southgate is contemplating a switch to a back three formation for England’s quarter-final match against Switzerland. This tactical adjustment aims to address previous difficulties faced by England against teams employing a back three. The potential inclusion of two strikers and the use of wing-backs provide England with increased attacking options. However, the final decision on the formation and lineup will depend on various factors, including the availability of players and Southgate’s strategic analysis of the opposition.