Gareth Southgate’s England team return to action on Tuesday night, four days after suffering defeat to Spain in their opening UEFA Nations League game. That match was the Three Lions first since returning from Russia, having finished in fourth place earlier this year. However, it was also England’s third consecutive defeat, their worst run in over 30 years and a loss to Switzerland on Tuesday will be the biggest losing run in the history of the national team, a far-cry from England’s heroics in Russia earlier this summer.
It’s almost a reality check for Southgate’s men, who’s last three defeats have all come against superior football sides, with creativity in midfield and a stronger set of players. However, Switzerland aren’t as good as Spain, Belgium or Croatia, which will give players hope leading into this one. Aside from their run of form, a major concern for Southgate is the form of captain Harry Kane. The Tottenham striker has looked jaded for his club so far this season, while the lack of depth in forward options, following Jamie Vardy’s retirement, means that England are still very much reliant on their main man.
As for Switzerland, they thumped Iceland 6-0 in their Nations League opener on Sunday and cannot be discounted. Liverpool’s Xherdan Shaqiri will be their biggest danger if he starts against England, while others to look out for are Denis Zakaria and Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka.
England vs. Switzerland Predictions
This is a big game for Southgate and defeat at Leicester would not only see a new England losing record set but would also undo a lot of the good work done in Russia. However, I can see them winning this game quite comfortably. Switzerland aren’t prolific in attack and much depends on how motivated Xherdan Shaqiri is for the game.
England vs. Switzerland Betting Tips
Head to Head
- When playing at home, England have not lost to Switzerland in their last 5 encounters.
- England’s home record his season stands at two wins and one draw, with no defeats.
- England have lost their last three matches in a row.
England Team News
Southgate could make as many as nine changes for Tuesday’s game, with Leicester’s Ben Chilwell and Demarai Gray in line to make their first appearances for the senior side. Both were with the Under-21 team, but joined up with the senior squad and could make their debuts at their home ground. Luke Shaw will definitely miss out with a head injury.
Switzerland Team News
Albian Ajeti scored within six minutes of coming on for his Switzerland debut against Iceland and could be in line to start ahead of Breel Embolo.
@dominictrant
