Not changing a winning team

[alphabet_king]

Interesting that other than the Belgium game where it was virtually a 2nd team that played, the team has barely changed since the start of the wc. I think this has been of huge benefit to England.

Not only does it give the players comfort that one mistake/poor game wont cost them their place, but it also allows players to build up chemistry and to work on partnerships and playing together. We are also not shoehornig players into positions or dicking around with formations etc. I just feel it gives the players far more comfort and calmness and they know what they need to do much more.

As some have suggested, it would have been very tempting to give Rashford a chance. But Southgates resisted the urge to tinker with the formation/style/personel as much as possible. Which i think has been a good advantage.

 

[shotshy]

Absolutely

 

[LancsGordoRoad]

Agree, start the same eleven.

 

[octopus]

I agree, even though it would tempting to make the midfield more solid against Croatia, keeping the same together may be our best bet.

 

[markinkent]

Its worked so far. Keep with it.

Interesting how many teams take the "train" approach at set pieces next season. Looks bloody heard to defend against.

 

[Wayne.Kerr]

It worked for Sir Alf why not the current bloke? If he is going to use the likes of Rashford, it has to be considered carefully. A few minutes at the end, he could come on himself, but sooner, injuries and losing three nil aside, and it could disrupt the play.