Your best players are not always the best fit for your team. England is once again facing this dilemma. Gareth Southgate’s tactics have become sluggish, and his unbalanced starting XI makes England one of the hardest teams to watch at Euro 2024. Southgate has fallen into the trap of trying to fit too many similar players into a one-paced attack, reminiscent of past managerial mistakes.
The good news is that there is still time to fix England before their last-16 tie in Gelsenkirchen. A few tweaks could help England build on their slight improvement in the second half of their draw with Slovenia. The question is whether Southgate is bold enough to make these changes.
The first change is clear: Conor Gallagher out, Kobbie Mainoo in. Mainoo should have the chance to handle the ball in midfield, despite his defensive weaknesses. The second issue is the left-back position. Kieran Trippier is struggling, and stronger attacks could target him. Instead of waiting for Luke Shaw to regain full fitness, Southgate should consider moving Kyle Walker to the left and starting Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back. Though unbalanced, this setup would allow Alexander-Arnold to play his natural position and offer more control in possession.
Flexibility is crucial now. Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham are occupying the same space, and Bukayo Saka is running out of steam on the right. Southgate faces a significant decision: can he look past reputations and make the necessary changes?
Part of the decision may be influenced by Foden’s return home for a family matter, making his availability for the next game uncertain. Southgate must realize that persisting with the current setup is risky. We need to consider different angles. They should consider bringing in Cole Palmer, who showed promise against Slovenia, for Saka. Additionally, Anthony Gordon’s speed on the flanks could be beneficial, especially if Foden misses training and becomes vulnerable to being replaced.
Bellingham, expected to shine at this tournament, has struggled. He was brilliant in the first half against Serbia but faded in the second. In Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti used Bellingham as a false No 9. However, his recent performances for England have been lackluster. He has been slow, petulant, and ineffective, pressing non‑existent and frequently losing possession.
For all his maturity, Bellingham is still only 20 and learning. His recent behavior suggests frustration and pressure. Tactically, Bellingham and Foden do not work well together without Shaw providing width from left-back. England needs directness, which Gordon could provide. International football often requires players for specific roles, and Southgate must choose wisely.
If Foden returns, Southgate must decide if Bellingham deserves another chance. England needs a team for the present, capable of winning four more games. Bellingham is the future, but Southgate must prioritize the present. The best players are those who can help England win now, and Bellingham may be fortunate if he gets another opportunity on Sunday.
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