Gareth Southgate’s Selection Dilemma Ahead of Euro 2024 Quarter-Final
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 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.
England Predicted XI vs Switzerland
- Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
- Right Centre-Back: Kyle Walker
- Centre-Back: John Stones
- Left Centre-Back: Ezri Konsa
- Right Wing-Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold
- Central Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo
- Central Midfield: Declan Rice
- Left Wing-Back: Bukayo Saka
- Attacking Midfield: Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden
- Striker: Harry Kane
With an incredible opportunity to make another final opening up before England, it’s time for Gareth Southgate to do something bold.
