England’s progress is set to come under serious examination when they battle Colombia, potentially robbed of star playmaker James Rodriguez’s services, in World Cup 2018’s round of 16.
Here are the key tactical battles ahead of Tuesday’s clash at Spartak Stadium:
DOES DELE COME BACK IN?
It is a good problem to have for England head coach Gareth Southgate.
A thigh strain late in the first half of England’s opening 2-1 win against Tunisia has since robbed the Three Lions boss of Dele Alli’s presence. In his absence, Chelsea’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek has impressed.
With Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard looking untouchable, it appears a straight choice between Alli and Loftus-Cheek. On weight of goals, the former easily wins favour – 37 career Premier League efforts to just three.
But if England want to combat Colombia’s set-piece threat, Loftus-Cheek’s superior height – 6 ft 3 in to 6 ft 2 in – is worth considering. Goalkeeper David Ospina’s propensity to flap at crosses could also be exacerbated by Loftus-Cheek.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT JAMES?
Picking gaps in England’s 3-1-4-2 formation appeared a task Colombia are eminently capable of pulling off.
That was until James Rodriguez’s calf injury flared up against Senegal. If the Bayern Munich loanee struggles to make a third World Cup 2018 start, it leaves boss Jose Pekerman with plenty to ponder.
On-song Juan Quintero will relish pulling the strings. The decision then is whether to go for two pure wingers, another playmaker or a forward.
Brighton wide man Jose Izquierdo underwhelmed against Japan. Sevilla forward Luis Muriel then replaced Rodriguez early on against Senegal, but Colombia laboured to victory.
How they must rue the indiscretions of abandoned Edwin Cardona. There is no easy fix to replace someone of Rodriguez’s gifts.
PACE IS THE KEY
England’s successes in Russia have been based on the twinning of set-piece proficiency with sharp, incisive build-up play.
Expect the former-mentioned aspect to be cancelled out by the combative Colombians. Battles in the air will be relished by centre-backs Yerry Mina and Davinson Sanchez.
But it is on the ground where England can hope to gain joy. Sanchez has badly missed Tottenham club-mate Jan Vertonghen’s guidance, putting in a calamitous display against Japan.
Lingard was taken off early against Panama and rested versus Belgium, meaning his spot in the XI should be safe.
Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling has not scored internationally since October 2015. But his nimble feet have the potential to unsettle more than substitute Marcus Rashford.
