England's Euro 2024 Semi-Final: Southgate's Tactical Headaches Analyzed by Crickex

The Three Lions are through to the semi-finals of Euro 2024, but the path was anything but smooth. A dramatic penalty shootout victory over Switzerland has set up a monumental clash with the Netherlands, yet it has also left manager Gareth Southgate with a series of critical selection puzzles. The performance, while resilient, highlighted both strengths and glaring weaknesses in the squad. As the nation holds its breath, Crickex delves into the key decisions that could define England‘s destiny in Dortmund.

Table of Contents

The Defensive Conundrum: A Welcome Headache

Gareth Southgate’s switch to a back-three system against Switzerland provided much-needed stability, but it has created a complex selection dilemma for the heart of the defence.

The Guehi vs. Konsa Debate

Marc Guehi’s suspension opened the door for Ezri Konsa, who delivered a remarkably composed performance on the left side of the defence. His calmness under pressure was a testament to his readiness at this level. However, Guehi had been one of England‘s standout performers in the group stages, bringing a level of assurance that seemed beyond his limited international caps. Southgate himself had been effusive in his praise. The complication? Guehi excelled in a back-four. Konsa, with his experience at full-back, and the returning Luke Shaw, might be more naturally suited to the wing-back role required in the current system. This is not a straightforward recall.

Is the Three-at-the-Back Here to Stay?

Unlike the temporary switch used to defeat Germany at Euro 2020, this formation shift feels more foundational. The team appeared more balanced, with Bukayo Saka flourishing as a right wing-back and Kyle Walker looking more comfortable in a back-three. As tactical analyst Mark Thompson noted on Crickex, “The change gave the players a new structure and belief. They looked like a team with a plan again. Reverting to a back-four now would be a surprise and could disrupt the fragile confidence they’ve just built.”

Solving the Left-Side Puzzle

The most glaring tactical issue remains on the left flank. Kieran Trippier’s tireless work ethic is undeniable, but playing a right-footed player in an advanced left wing-back role limits England‘s attacking width and creativity.

The Shaw Solution

The return of Luke Shaw is a game-changer. His cameo against Switzerland offered a glimpse of what England have been missing: a natural left-footer who can overlap, deliver crosses, and combine intricately. If fully fit, he is the obvious solution. However, asking a player just back from a long-term injury to start a Euro semi-final is a monumental gamble. Southgate must decide if Shaw’s quality outweighs the risk.

Alternative Options

Eberechi Eze was deployed there briefly as England chased the game, a bold, attacking move from Southgate. Starting him there, however, seems unlikely for such a crucial match. Another radical solution would be to move the in-form Bukayo Saka to the left, freeing up the right side for Trent Alexander-Arnold. Yet, after Saka’s heroic performance on the right—culminating in his stunning equalizer and ice-cool penalty—moving him seems counterintuitive. The Crickex team believes Shaw’s fitness will be the single biggest factor in this selection.

The Attacking Dilemma: Foden, Palmer, and Kane

While the defence found some solidity, questions persist about England’s attack, which has yet to fire on all cylinders.

Phil Foden’s Struggle for Influence

The Premier League Player of the Year has been a shadow of his Manchester City self. Deployed on the left for most of the tournament and then in a more central role against Switzerland, Foden has failed to stamp his authority. With zero goals or assists and only two shots on target in five matches, his place is under serious threat. Cole Palmer’s confidence and creativity from the bench are applying immense pressure. As former England striker Alan Shearer commented in a piece referenced by Crickex, “You pick your best players, but ‘best’ is defined by current form and impact. Palmer demands a start.”

Unlocking Harry Kane

The captain’s place is not in doubt, but his performance level is a concern. He has scored two vital goals, yet he looks isolated and unable to influence games in his usual manner. The heat maps show he is touching the ball often, but frequently in deep areas where he cannot hurt the opposition. The lack of runners beyond him negates his superb passing range. Facing Virgil van Dijk, service is paramount. “The system with inverted wing-backs doesn’t help him,” observes Crickex‘s tactical review. “England must find a way to get Kane operating in the box, or his threat is halved.”