England v Colombia: three things we learned from a crazy match

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MOSCOW, RUSSIA – JULY 03: Dele Alli of England goes down injured during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Colombia and England at Spartak Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) /

Southgate should have replaced Dele Alli

I have admiration for Alli’s perseverance, yet Southgate was wrong to keep him on at half-time. However, it is very difficult to criticise anything Southgate has done at this World Cup. Generally I agreed with all but a few decisions: some of which he proved me wrong about. Jordan Pickford’s inclusion for one and John Stones’ vital displays are another.

Yet, one choice baffled me and it has happened twice. Against Tunisia in the initial group game, Dele Alli had a blatant knock. He hobbled around the pitch towards half-time, leading many viewers to deduce his imminent withdrawal after the break. Strangely, Alli emerged from the tunnel for the recommencement, playing 80 minutes total, but seemingly unable to fully commit.

Bizarrely, the same scenario happened once more against Colombia on Tuesday. Southgate’s decision not to substitute his player again baffled me. Evidently many other fans agreed, as is clear on social media. Alli has a lot to offer when fit, but he was not. Nearly 45,000 people saw that in the Otkrytie Arena.

I feel there are three players pushing for a start. Danny Rose, Marcus Rashford and possibly Ruben Loftus-Cheek. If Alli is unfit, the Chelsea man could replace him. Rose is after Ashley Young’s position on the left. While Rashford could come in for Raheem Sterling, who made great endeavour to no avail – as of yet.

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