John Stones is confident in England’s adaptability to shift to a three-man defense as they prepare for their Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland, despite the absence of Marc Guehi.
The Three Lions secured their spot in the tournament’s final eight teams with a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Slovakia on Sunday. Their progression sets up a clash with Switzerland in Dusseldorf on Saturday, necessitating adjustments to the lineup.
Crystal Palace standout Guehi, who has played every minute of England’s Euro campaign and stood out as a key player, will miss the upcoming match due to suspension after receiving his second yellow card of the tournament.
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Manager Gareth Southgate is considering a shift to a back three in Guehi’s absence, potentially reintroducing Trent Alexander-Arnold at wing-back and possibly giving Luke Shaw his first appearance since returning from a five-month injury layoff.
However, Stones, a central defender, remains unfazed by the tactical adjustments, expressing confidence in England’s ability to adapt to different formations.
John Stones emphasizes England’s capability to switch to a three-man backline, underscoring its importance as they prepare to face Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals without Marc Guehi.
The Three Lions secured their place among the final eight teams in the tournament after a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Slovakia on Sunday. Their advancement sets up a clash with Switzerland on Saturday in Dusseldorf, necessitating adjustments to the lineup.
Crystal Palace star Guehi, who has been a standout in England’s Euro campaign, will miss the upcoming game due to suspension after receiving his second yellow card of the tournament.
Manager Gareth Southgate has been experimenting with a back three in response to Guehi’s absence, potentially reintroducing Trent Alexander-Arnold at wing-back and possibly giving Luke Shaw his first appearance since returning from a five-month injury absence.
Stones, unfazed by the tactical shifts, expressed confidence in England’s adaptability. “We’ve done it in previous tournaments before, like against Germany in the last Euros and in 2018,” he noted. “It’s a great option for us to have as a team, and it shouldn’t be underestimated how easily and seamlessly we can transition and gel together.”