Gareth Southgate faces a selection dilemma ahead of England’s Euro 2024 quarter-final with Switzerland on Saturday.
After heading to Germany facing doubts over his ability to cut it in a major international tournament, Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi has arguably been the Three Lions’ most consistent player so far.
The 23-year-old is ranked first among England players at the tournament for aerial duels won (9) and possessions won in the middle third (12), while he’s second for passes completed (312), showing excellent ability and composure with and without the ball.
However, Guehi picked up his second yellow card of Euro 2024 in England’s 2-1 win over Slovakia in the previous round, meaning he’ll miss their clash with the Swiss in Dusseldorf.
What’s more, Newcastle defender Kieran Trippier is a fitness doubt after filling in at left-back throughout the tournament despite struggling with a calf problem.
The latest reports (via talkSPORT) suggest Southgate could make a switch to a back three against Switzerland. It’s a system that has served the England manager well in previous tournaments and could provide extra defensive cover with the Three Lions missing key personnel.
But how could England line up if they make this tactical switch?
England predicted XI vs Switzerland
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
No shocks here. Pickford is behind only France’s Mike Maignan (3) for clean sheets with two, while he’s made 10 saves and pulled England out of numerous holes with his agility and alertness. The Everton stopper’s ability on the ball is a huge bonus.
Right centre-back: Kyle Walker
Nominally a right-back, Walker has filled the RCB role for England in the past, most successfully during the run to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals. His ability on the ball and recovery speed make him a huge asset while, at 34 years old, he carries a wealth of experience at club and international level.
Centre-back: John Stones
Stones has been spotted training in a knee brace this week, but is expected to be fit to face Switzerland. The Man City star has been the cause of real frustration at these Euros with his play on the ball often painfully slow and ponderous. However, there’s no doubting his quality on peak form, while he’s become a stalwart for England under Southgate. A back three would give Stones more licence to step into midfield and help the Three Lions build attacks, which is where he’s at his best.
Left centre-back: Ezri Konsa
With Guehi suspended,…
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