England Practice Different Formation Ahead of Euro 2024 Quarter-Final

In the group stage matches against Serbia, https://jambosmodesty.com/i2f5FqgOdMLZFK/101602 Denmark, and Slovenia, England's performance was lackluster, only managing to secure five points and scoring a mere two goals. They were on the verge of a surprising elimination in the last-16 round against Slovakia until Jude Bellingham's late-game heroics. Gareth Southgate has consistently employed a 4-2-3-1 formation in all games, fielding the same ten players each time. The only alteration was Conor Gallagher replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield against Slovenia, while Kobbie Mainoo took that spot in the Slovakia match. However, in the previous round, England switched to a 3-5-2 formation while chasing the game. Recent reports suggest that this system was practiced again during training on Wednesday. This indicates that Southgate might opt for this setup against Switzerland, who also utilize a three-man defense. It remains uncertain whether this change will be implemented from the start or as a tactical adjustment later in the game. With Marc Guehi suspended, a defensive alteration is inevitable. Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa is the likely replacement, but a 3-5-2 formation could see Kyle Walker slotting in alongside the center-backs, with wing-backs on either side. 

This setup could provide an opportunity for Trent Alexander-Arnold or even the return of Luke Shaw. Bukayo Saka has experience as a wing-back, offering Southgate the chance to include attacking options like Anthony Gordon or Cole Palmer in the starting lineup.

Southgate's England has previously utilized a back-three system, notably during the 2018 World Cup, where it played a crucial role in their journey to the semi-finals. The same formation was occasionally used in Euro 2020, with Walker, Stones, and Maguire forming the defensive trio in key matches against Germany and Italy. Even Southgate himself played in a back three during the 1998 World Cup.