Yet to concede at these Euros, if Gareth Southgate gets his team right, they could carve open a creaky German defence
Joachim Löw’s side conceded five goals in their three group games, showing Gareth Southgate there are frailties to be exposed in the Germany defence. A change in formation could be key to England’s chances of success, as it would give Southgate the requisite weaponry to make the most of Germany’s vulnerability to the counter-attack.
Germany flood numbers forward, attack with six and press aggressively so hitting them on the counter is a smart option. France, Portugal and Hungary made the most of the problems Löw’s defence have exhibited. Switching to a back three, which could become a five, being compact and hitting quickly on the break will be the best way to liberate England’s attackers.
Related: Germany’s reputation precedes them – but this team are the ersatz version | Jonathan Liew
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