Back three or back four?
Since reaching the 2018 World Cup semi-finals with a 3-5-2 formation, England have alternated between 4-3-3 and 3-4-3. The reason for the switch has been twofold: firstly, while England qualified with ease, their defending gave Southgate cause for concern, notably conceding three goals at home to Kosovo and losing 2-1 in the Czech Republic. As a result, three centre-backs were used for the Nations League – protected by two holding midfielders – in a move that made England more solid in defence, but less fluid in attack.
Secondly, Southgate believes tactical flexibility will be key to England’s success, and as a result has sought to accumulate a wider variety of tactical options. The group stage will likely be negotiated with a centre-back pairing, but tougher tests could see a third defender join John Stones and Harry Maguire.
In terms of selection, Southgate has plenty of headaches to mull over. Declan Rice, Mason Mount, Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane can all expect to start against Croatia, but the final two spots in midfield and attack are very much up for grabs, while both full-back/wing-back positions will be hotly contested too.