As England gear up for their Euro 2024 quarter-final match against Switzerland, the fiery debate over optimal line-up is reaching a fever pitch.
Possible Line-Ups For England To Face Switzerland
Sky Sports writers have chimed in with a mix of diverse and often contradicting opinions on formations, key players, and tactical tweaks. Here is a snapshot of the standout perspectives:
Peter Smith: Creativity Is Key
Peter Smith has argued for a return to the 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on the need for creativity and a refreshed wing threat. He has advocated for Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold to reclaim his right-back position.
He opted to replace Kyle Walker who is not in his best form and had a below-average performance so far. Smith also wants Joe Gomez at left-back to handle Switzerland’s Dan Ndoye, with Gordon on the left to provide width and stretch play.
Oli Yew: Saka’s Wing-Back Wizardry
Oli Yew calls for a drastic switch to a 3-4-3 formation, utilizing Saka as a left wing-back and Alexander-Arnold on the right. According to him this setup will match the Swiss system and create more attacking threat. With Konsa stepping in for the suspended Guehi, Yew asserts that the defence as well as the attack will be fortified.
Joe Shread: Matching Switzerland’s System
Joe Shread also supports the 3-4-3 formation, matching Switzerland’s lineup. He believes this will give England the much-needed width and defensive solidity.
Shread drops Trippier in favour of Alexander-Arnold at wing-back, while Liverpool Defender Gomez replaces the suspended Guehi. He sees this as the best way to unleash Alexander-Arnold’s creativity.
Ben Grounds: Toney’s Time to Shine
Ben Grounds takes a daring stance, pushing for Ivan Toney to join Harry Kane in a 5-3-2 formation. Toney’s impactful performance against Slovakia certainly earns him a starting spot. Grounds also highlights the necessity for a robust defensive setup to counter Switzerland’s form.
Lewis Jones: Midfield Wins You Game
Jones opts for a 5-3-2 formation to neutralize Granit Xhaka’s influence. He places Saka as a left wing-back and Alexander-Arnold as a right wing-back, with Walker in a defensive role. Jones highlights the importance of direct play and set pieces, with Toney partnering Kane in the front.
Sam Blitz: Unleash Gordon
Sam Blitz sticks to a 4-2-3-1 formation but relies on Anthony Gordon to solve England’s left-side issues. He urges for individual adjustments instead of a mid-tournament formation change.
Ron Walker: Balance and Form
Ron Walker also favours the ongoing 4-2-3-1, advocating for Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer to provide the width and direct play. This approach will pin back the Swiss wing-backs and allow England more control to dictate the tempo of the game.
The debate rages on, but one thing is crystal clear:
Gareth Southgate must go bold and make the right choices without any conservation to steer England to victory against the formidable Switzerland!
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