England has been impressive in defense at Euro 2024, conceding only two goals in four games. However, manager Gareth Southgate faces new challenges as he prepares for the quarter-final against Switzerland. In the last game, Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier suffered a knock to his leg and had to be replaced by Bukayo Saka of Arsenal at left-back. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is suspended for the upcoming match, leaving a gap in the backline.
Former Three Lions midfielder Danny Murphy criticized England’s defensive performance in the last game, describing it as “all over the place.” He expressed concerns about how the team would fare against stronger opponents. Ex-captain Alan Shearer is interested in seeing how England will handle Switzerland’s attacking formation and suggested Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa as a replacement for Guehi.
Micah Richards proposed a change in the defensive line, with Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold coming in at right-back and Kyle Walker of Manchester City moving to the left. Gary Lineker highlighted the disjointed nature of England’s defense in the last game, emphasizing the need for better cohesion and balance within the team. The upcoming match against Switzerland poses a new test for England, and Southgate will need to make tactical adjustments to ensure a solid defensive performance.
As Southgate prepares his team for their quarter-final match against Switzerland, he knows that they must improve their defensive play if they hope to succeed. With Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier out due to injury and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi suspended, Southgate has several challenges ahead of him when it comes to building his defense. However, he has received some valuable insights from former Three Lions midfielder Danny Murphy and ex-captain Alan Shearer that could help him make some important changes to his lineup.
Murphy was critical of England’s defensive play in their last game, describing it as “all over the place.” He expressed concern about how well they would perform against stronger opponents who might exploit their weaknesses more effectively than Spain did.
Shearer was also concerned about England’s ability to handle Switzerland’s attacking formation but suggested that Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa might be able to provide some much-needed stability at center back.
Micah Richards proposed an interesting solution by suggesting that Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold should come in at right back while Kyle Walker of Manchester City should move to left back. This move could help improve balance within the defense and provide better cover on both sides.
Gary Lineker also weighed in on this issue by highlighting just how disjointed England’s defense had been during their previous games.
Overall, it’s clear that Southgate will need all hands on deck if he hopes to lead England past Switzerland and into the semi-finals. With so many questions remaining about his team’s ability to defend effectively under pressure, he’ll have plenty of work cut out for him before kickoff on Saturday evening!