Tuchel’s Tactical Insights on Player Positioning
Thomas Tuchel may have a point regarding player positioning; his assertion that Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden cannot be effectively utilized together on the field acquired some validation during England’s recent 2-0 victory against Serbia. The match revealed intriguing developments, particularly in the closing stages, underscoring the flexibility and potential tactical changes within the squad.
Match Dynamics and Tactical Changes
In the game, which saw England initially lead through a brilliant volley from Bukayo Saka before halftime, Tuchel enacted a series of substitutions that transformed the team’s dynamics for the final quarter of the match. As England maintained their lead, Kane and Morgan Rogers, who started as the central attacking midfielder, were replaced by Foden, who adapted to a false nine role, with Bellingham positioned behind him. This shift also saw Eberechi Eze take over from Marcus Rashford on the left and Jordan Henderson come on for Declan Rice, positioning Elliot Anderson to influence play further up the pitch.
This tactical realignment bore fruit, as it led to England’s most compelling play of the evening. A few minutes before the final whistle, Bellingham expertly set up Foden, whose flick found Eze. Although Eze hit the crossbar, the trio exhibited their creativity moments later, with Bellingham again assisting Foden, who delivered a perfectly timed pass to Eze for a curled strike into the net, sealing the game.
Exploring Foden’s Role
While Serbia valiantly chased a goal that could have revived their World Cup hopes, the fresh combination of players unveiled exciting prospects for England’s attack. Interestingly, in discussions about Foden’s role as a potential backup to Kane, Tuchel referenced two players absent from the squad, including veteran Danny Welbeck. He emphasized that Foden’s recent form could present an alternative strategy, noting,
“If Phil stays in this shape, I have no problem. We have Ollie Watkins and Welbeck – options that are different from Harry.”
Tactically, Tuchel has been cautious not to force Foden into a conventional winger role, which his predecessor Gareth Southgate had done during Euro 2024, a strategy that Foden himself criticized for limiting his impact on the game. His trial as a false nine under Tuchel opens fresh avenues for the England team, something Southgate never explored. At club level, Foden has previously thrived in such a position at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, making this approach familiar territory.
Reflections on Player Performance
Tuchel reflected on Foden’s strengths, recalling his past encounters and the challenges he posed to defensive lines with his quick movements and knack for finding space. He elucidated,
“I wanted to see him in the midst of the opposition’s defensive setup, where he could truly make an impact. He was excellent and will remain a significant option, especially against teams that sit back defensively.”
Despite Kane’s undeniable standing as England’s top scorer and a vital player with Bayern Munich, the question of who supports him remains open. Historically, no deputy has firmly secured that spot, demonstrating the difficulty of taking on that role given Kane’s unrivaled quality. As England gears up for the World Cup, the depth of the squad will be crucial in navigating the competitions across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico next summer.
Looking Ahead
In the matchup against Serbia, Rashford showed flashes of potential but failed to capitalize effectively, whereas Eze emerged as a more menacing presence. Saka, too, provided glimpses of brilliance, tallying 12 different players generating scoring chances, marking the highest in a single match since 2013.
With seven consecutive qualifying victories and no goals conceded, England is shaping up to be a formidable side. Tuchel’s management appears predicated on performance rather than past credentials, as demonstrated by keeping Rogers in the game despite Bellingham’s storied status. He explained the decision:
“Morgan earned his place with excellent performances, and we needed his familiarity with our team tactics.”
As England prepares for their next match in Albania, the potential for a versatile attacking setup is a promising sign for their World Cup ambitions.
