Ian Wright suggests Gareth Southgate should use Bukayo Saka as a left-back and Chelsea star Cole Palmer as a right-winger
Ian Wright has humorously suggested a new position for Bukayo Saka in the national team to accommodate Chelsea star Cole Palmer in the squad. Both Palmer and Arsenal sensation Saka operate in the same position, but Saka hasn’t been convincing on the right wing recently.
Palmer, who was an unused substitute in England’s last two matches, finally received a chance to play some minutes in a major tournament. His performance impressed many pundits, including former Arsenal legend Wright.
The Three Lions have appeared uninspired in their group matches, winning once and drawing twice. Now, Southgate is being advised to change his system and utilize players who can make a significant impact.
Yesterday, Palmer impressed by finding gaps, linking up with teammates, and coming close to scoring a goal, although his shot lacked power and was saved easily by Jan Oblak. There is now a strong push for the Chelsea star to be included in the starting lineup for England’s last 16 round. Speaking to ITV via Standard, Wright offered suggestions on how to deploy both Saka and Palmer in the same lineup.
“I’m thinking, how are we going to get Palmer into the team if that’s the case? If that’s the case, with how naturally left-sided Saka is, maybe can you put Saka in at left-back and put Palmer on the right-hand side? Simply because we need to get some balance and get some fluidity in the game.”
Many might question Wright’s suggestion, but he has a point. Palmer has shown more in his brief appearances than Saka has in the last three England matches. If Southgate wants the Three Lions to advance further in the competition, he must consider practical solutions, especially as they will face teams capable of major surprises. Saka, who was once a full-back before switching to the right wing, has experience playing both positions and has even played left-back for England in some games.
The likes of Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, and Phil Foden have struggled to create goal-scoring opportunities, raising questions about England’s structure under Southgate, especially considering their excellent club seasons last term.
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Palmer is a difference-maker, and his short cameo demonstrated his desire to connect the dots and create chances. As England enters the knockout phase, Southgate needs to make strategic changes to ensure his star-studded team performs at their peak. The team has looked lacklustre and played uninspired football so far.
