Gareth Southgate has made a significant formation change for England’s quarter-final match against Switzerland. The England manager has switched to a back-three for the first time in the tournament. With Marc Guehi suspended, Southgate has brought in Ezri Konsa to partner John Stones and Kyle Walker in defense. Kieran Trippier retains his place but will move to right wing-back, while Bukayo Saka will play at left wing-back. Trent Alexander-Arnold once again misses out on the starting lineup.
This formation change was expected as the Three Lions trained in this shape earlier in the week. It is a bold move by Southgate, but one that many pundits did not anticipate. The new lineup closely aligns with what Jason Cundy had called for, with Trippier at right wing-back instead of Alexander-Arnold.
Saka’s position at left wing-back is not unfamiliar to him, as he has played there previously for Arsenal. The young player has expressed confidence in his ability to perform in this position, dispelling any doubts about his suitability as a left-back.
In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo will once again partner Declan Rice. Mainoo impressed in the last-16 match against Slovakia and showed fearlessness and an instinct to make the right decisions at crucial moments. This kind of mentality is what England needs to control games better and overcome their fears of failure or losing the ball.
Mainoo’s inclusion in the team has been hailed by former England player Jack Wilshere, who believes that Mainoo can be the glue that holds the team together not just for this tournament, but also for the future. Wilshere sees Mainoo as the kind of midfielder England has been lacking for a long time.
As England prepares for the quarter-final match against Switzerland, they not only have to contend with their opponents on the field but also with the possibility of a penalty shootout. Football psychologist Professor Geir Jordet has offered his advice to Southgate and the players on how to increase their chances of success in a shootout. His suggestions include smart leadership from Southgate, dictating the shootout as a team, having bulletproof pre-shot routines, and simulating penalty shootouts in training. Jordet even proposes a bold idea of making a late substitution for a specialist penalty-saving goalkeeper, although he acknowledges the potential risks and pressures associated with such a move.
Overall, Southgate’s formation change and the inclusion of Mainoo in midfield show that the England manager is willing to take risks and make bold decisions to give his team the best chance of victory. With the support of experts like Jordet and former players like Wilshere, England can approach the quarter-final match with confidence and optimism.