Now the biggest problem with setting up like that is how do you change the mentality. Your side probably feels like they lost at the moment.
I mean you cant turn the ball back every few minutes, you cant defend off ball for the whole game generally.
Bring in the right type of players: that's what impact subs do. And Southgate lucky for him, has a few at his disposal.
England also finding pressing so high up leads to a terrible last 20 minutes unless you are that version of Barca.
Playing Henderson, Rice and Phillips is a but worrying. How are they gonna get out? Edit: its mount, not Rice.
Changed the formation with the first change of Saka for Trips. Can understand bringing on Henderson as well. But Mount is probably spent and Grealish is perfect player to come in for him and take it to Italy's backline. Real shame that Southgate really does not seem to appreciate what he has in Grealish. Mystifying really...
Look how high Italy are playing. If only England had some quick players as subs that would force Italy defence back … FFS Southgate ….
They have pace in Sterling and Saka: need some creativity and someone who can draw fouls. That's where Grealish comes into the equation...
No you need someone to do what Chiesa is doing, take the ball through the defense. Grealish is not that player.
I actually feel that the guy that needs to be subbed is Kane. Has added nothing and helps clutter the middle.
What is Saka there for then: he's playing on the right wing. With Sterling playing the opposite flank, how many wingers do you want on the pitch?