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7 reasons why England can win the World Cup

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

NIZHNY NOVGOROD, RUSSIA - JUNE 24: Harry Kane of England is seen with the matchball following scoring a hatrick in his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between England and Panama at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 24, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
NIZHNY NOVGOROD, RUSSIA - JUNE 24: Harry Kane of England is seen with the matchball following scoring a hatrick in his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between England and Panama at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 24, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /
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SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JUNE 21: England manager Gareth Southgate in conversatiion during the England training session on June 21, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JUNE 21: England manager Gareth Southgate in conversatiion during the England training session on June 21, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /

Southgate is a tactical expert

Well, we know Maradona rates the team and manager. Although the former Argentina playmaker’s personal display on Tuesday at his country’s showdown, and as an ‘ambassador’ was disgusting, as is his general behaviour in Russia.

Away from the self-indulgent characters in football, there are quiet, more considered scholars. Like Southgate. Who elegantly conveyed his message to the media about preventing revealing the side through tabloids and social media, hitting a patriotic nerve in the process.

Following this, Pickford stated at a presser that Gareth Southgate has not told the players who starts on Thursday. Ah, a wise move, gaffer. It is important the Belgians do not prepare with inside information. Although Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett says the Three Lions have a fully fit squad.

Southgate’s tactical nous.

Apart from the inconsistency of the offside trap, the management have the squad adept and performing satisfactorily. The respect the manager receives is testament to his quality and nature.

An example is when he took a seat on the economy part of England’s travel. Thus making available the luxurious seating for his squad. Deference is essential in man management. Honing his tactical acumen whilst coaching Three Lions’ youth sides. Essentially using everything available to the team’s advantage.

"“We’re a team with our diversity and our youth that represent modern England.” – Gareth Southgate (Via: ITV Sport)"

What I am really impressed with is the formation change. Described restrictively as a 3-5-2. In reality, it is interchangeable. Defining it that way does not do justice.

A single holding man is a definite improvement, in regards to attacking flow. Dele Alli and Jesse Lingard provide many more key passes in correct areas.

Southgate gave credit to forward coach Alan Russell for the improvement in the standout set-pieces undertaken. Modesty is a theme.

On average the boss is correct in assertion. Bringing Kieran Trippier into midfield was a master stroke as he made a tournament high amount of crosses. Kyle Walker is yet to settle at right-centre, that will happen though.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek failed to take his opportunity, possibly due to nerves of the occasion. He made poor challenges and many turnovers. Still, it was correct to try him, especially against Panama. Not that he is out-of-his-depth, he just needs refinement over time.

Group G’s big one

Because England need victory to ensure first place and maintain momentum, perhaps it is best to field the best team: if the staff know what that is. However, a kinder draw may result in finishing second in Group G.

With one fewer yellow card than the Belgians, the Three Lions lead. Both quality national teams have scored and conceded an equal amount. A rejuvenated England under Southgate march on.

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