I dont mind the idea of Trippier ahead of Trent to be honest. I dont think Trippier has played poorly, but has tried to do a job down and unnatural side. Trent is a defensive liability in my opinion. He just doesnt sense danger, particularly in behind. Alright saying Walker can cover but the left hand side of Switzerland is a real threat with Vargas and if Walker has to cover him too often the likes of Embolo will find any space left. I think midfield is key tonight. We have to dominate in there. Rice has to really step in if we play 3cbs and play higher and try to dominate possesion and ball retention and get it wide and high for the wing backs. Then I want to Foden and Bellingham put the hurry up on Xhaka when they have it. They need to be prepared to work hard to stop him for 70 mins, then we can let someone else loose at them.
I'm really positive about this exciting afternoon guys. Yes we've spluttered along so far, but it seems that most teams have sat back nervously, and I kinda understand, to an extent. Despite all the negativity, my view is this - We don't see these international teams perform week in, and week out like in domestic football, so keeping possession is probably the pragmatic way unfortunately. Anyway, I'm Mr Possitive today... I love watching Mainoo. I love his Messi style skills and confidence. He will be key this afternoon. We are blessed with attacking flair, aren't we?......and therefore, is this match, the match that everything clicks guys?.........If so, then maybe, we have nothing to worry about in the next two matches.....
PREDICTION - * England will score in the first half.. * Kane will score.. * Pickford makes a worldy save.. * Mainoo plays a blinder.. * Foden plays a blinder. * England victory.. Back O' The Net.....
Can't see passed a Switzerland win. They've been everything England haven't at this tournament. Having said that, tournament experience does play a part and England have been in the semi finals of 2 of the last 3 tournaments whereas Switzerland have never been in a semi. It's not to be discounted.
I reckon Southgate could have picked any side and would have been criticised. It has become ingrained I think. Win lose or draw the tournament it is his last in charge so we will get to see the brave new world people want. I was going to the pub but have decided to stay in with a cup of tea. Watching Southgate style I can see the logic of the lineup. I dont particularly like it, but can see the rationale. With Guehi out we probably need an extra cb for the cover. It gives us the chance to get Foden inside as well. Once we have wing backs Trippier makes sense on the right to try and look after Vargas who is a big threat. Trent is just rubbish at defending in my opinion. Saka left side I do not like, but Konsa is a left sided player so I can see some balance at least. For me today is about Rice pushinh higher and dominating against Xhaka and controlling our tempo. Do that, and if Foden or Belillingham can run beyond Kane then I think we can do it. Hell of a tough game though, the Swiss are as well organised as anyone and will not roll over at any point. Embolo is a real talent. Haway England, Haway Gareth lad.
Personally I would have picked Trent and Palmer ahead of Trippier and Foden, but they'll both come off the bench and have a part to play, it's not just about picking your best 11. There will be criticism of Southgate right until the end. People have said he's not brave but he's changed formation in the Quarter Finals. That is a risky thing to do and bold imo.
I have criticised like almost everyone but going for 3-1 here. Hope fully they have had the kick up the arse they needed and today is the one where we perform as these players should be able to.
Looks like a back 4 to me. Saka is too high on the right to be wing back, unless it's very lobsided of course with Trippier dropping into a 4 when needed. Edit: It's a 3, but not a traditional one.
