Ex-Manchester United captain Gary Neville has predicted that England manager Gareth Southgate will enforce two changes to his starting XI for their next Euro 2024 clash against Slovenia. Despite the Three Lions currently topping Group C with four points, their performances against Serbia and Denmark have drawn widespread criticism.
As England prepares for their last Group C fixture on Tuesday, with one foot already in the knockout phase, Southgate’s decision to name the same starting line-ups for the first two fixtures has been questioned. Neville believes that the midfield engine room and forward line need an injection of fresh blood to improve their performance.
Speaking to ITV, Neville said, “Definitely a change. He’ll disrupt it, he has to. He talked about a partner for Rice and maybe some pace upfront alongside Kane. That’s Gordon and that’s Mainoo. Declan Rice must have a partner in midfield who can play and get us playing out from the back.”
Neville also suggested that Southgate might make a tactical switch, similar to those he has employed in previous tournaments. “I think that pace question is there, we’ve been talking about it for a few days. I think he could even be disruptive enough to do what he did in previous tournaments and go to a three at the back as well,” Neville added.
The call for changes comes after England’s somewhat lackluster performances in their first two group matches. Despite their top-of-the-group position, the team’s inability to dominate their matches against Serbia and Denmark has led to concerns among fans and pundits alike. Neville’s suggestion to bring in fresh legs could be seen as a way to address these issues and bring a new dynamic to the team.
In particular, the introduction of players like Anthony Gordon and Kobbie Mainoo could provide the much-needed energy and creativity that England has been lacking. Gordon, known for his pace and direct style of play, could offer a new dimension to the forward line, while Mainoo’s ability to control the midfield and support Rice could help England build more effectively from the back.
Neville’s comments also reflect a broader conversation about England’s tactical approach under Southgate. While the manager has often favored a conservative strategy, there is a growing belief that a more adventurous approach could benefit the team, especially as they move into the knockout stages of the tournament.
The potential switch to a three-at-the-back formation could also be a strategic move to strengthen England’s defense while allowing more freedom for their attacking players. This setup has been successful for Southgate in the past, notably during the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020, where England’s defensive solidity was a key factor in their deep runs in both tournaments.
As England prepares for their crucial match against Slovenia, the anticipation around Southgate’s team selection is palpable. Fans and analysts will be keenly watching to see if Neville’s predictions come true and whether the proposed changes can lead to a more convincing performance from the Three Lions.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Southgate, who will need to balance the need for fresh ideas with the importance of maintaining team cohesion and confidence. The match against Slovenia represents not just a chance to secure progression to the knockout stages but also an opportunity to build momentum and silence critics ahead of the tougher challenges that lie ahead.
Gary Neville’s call for changes in England’s starting XI highlights the need for tactical adjustments and fresh energy as the team looks to improve its performances in Euro 2024.
With key players like Gordon and Mainoo potentially coming into the fold, and a possible switch to a three-at-the-back formation, Southgate has several options to consider as he aims to guide England to success in the tournament.
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