Gareth Southgate is set to overhaul his Euro 2024 strategy, experimenting with various formations and player roles during training sessions. Sky Sports News reports that he’s explored multiple setups to find the optimal combination for his squad. One significant change under consideration is a shift to a three centre-back formation, a departure from England’s usual tactics since the Euro 2020 final against Italy. This formation could feature John Stones, Ezri Konsa, and Kyle Walker as central defenders, leveraging Walker’s speed to bolster defense against Swiss attacks.

The role of Jude Bellingham remains a key focus in Southgate’s tactical planning. One intriguing option is deploying Bellingham and Phil Foden as dual No. 10s, allowing them to drive the team’s attack from central positions. Alternatively, Southgate considers positioning Bellingham as a No. 8, deeper than his usual role at Real Madrid. However, concerns about Bellingham’s positional discipline in this role have arisen, given his history as a more forward-oriented midfielder.

Southgate faces the challenge of balancing offensive flair with defensive solidity. Allowing Bellingham and Foden too much freedom risks positional overlaps and inefficiencies, issues seen in previous matches. Another option under review is pairing Kobbie Mainoo or Conor Gallagher with Declan Rice in a defensive midfield setup, offering stability but potentially limiting attacking opportunities.

Southgate is also exploring a 3-5-2 formation, potentially partnering Ivan Toney with Harry Kane up front. However, integrating Anthony Gordon and Jarrod Bowen into this system poses challenges, with Cole Palmer potentially featuring as a substitute in the No. 10 role.

The rethink extends to the wing-back positions, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Bukayo Saka, Kieran Trippier, Eberechi Eze, and Luke Shaw competing for spots. The choice of wing-backs will be crucial in providing the width and dynamism Southgate seeks, influencing formations like 3-4-3, 3-5-2, or 3-4-2-1 based on match circumstances and training performances.

England’s closed training session was pivotal for Southgate to refine these new tactical plans. His readiness to adapt reflects his response to external pressures and his commitment to optimizing England’s tournament prospects. As England prepares for the quarter-final against Switzerland, fans await how these tactical adjustments will unfold on the field.

Jude Bellingham

Real Madrid performance and stats

Phil Foden

Manchester City performance and stats