Goldbridge: The tactical changes Southgate must consider

Gareth Southgate’s decision is under renewed scrutiny as England prepare for the Euro 2024 semi-finals. Mark Goldbridge, on the That’s Football podcast, has passionately argued that Harry Kane should be left out of the next crucial games. This blog explores the key points raised by Goldbridge and other contributors, focusing on why Southgate must make bold changes for England’s success.

Mark Goldbridge opened the podcast with a clear stance: “Gareth Southgate needs to drop Harry Kane, but we all know he won’t.” That sentiment is rooted in Kane’s current form, which Goldbridge has described as “absolutely rubbish” throughout the tournament. Despite being one of England’s greatest players, his recent performances don’t justify a place in the starting XI.

Goldbridge compared Southgate’s reliance on Kane to that of a general relying on luck rather than skill, referencing Napoleon’s preference for lucky generals. He said: “We’ve been incredibly lucky with the wonderful goals from Bellingham and Saka, but how long is that luck going to last?” Luck cannot be the basis for winning a tournament; strategic decisions must be based on current form and tactical needs.

Goldbridge and other contributors have compared international management to club management. “If Kane were playing for Bayern Munich, Manchester City or Real Madrid, he would be on the bench,” Goldbridge explained. He pointed out that club managers like Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp would not hesitate to bench a player in poor form, regardless of his stature.

The podcast highlighted viable alternatives to Kane, including Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins. Goldbridge said: “Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins offer something very, very different: mobility, strength and fitness.” He argued that these players are in great shape and could provide the dynamic presence that Kane currently lacks.

By using Toney or Watkins, England could stretch their defences and create more opportunities for midfielders like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. Goldbridge said: “Take Harry Kane out, put Ivan Toney or Ollie Watkins up front, and it’s a completely different game.” That tactical flexibility could be crucial against strong opponents like the Netherlands.

Goldbridge criticised the mainstream media’s reluctance to challenge Southgate’s decisions. “Your job in the mainstream media is actually to have the debate: Harry Kane shouldn’t be starting; Ivan Toney should be,” he argued. The podcast highlighted the importance of honest and critical discussions to hold management to account and push for necessary changes.

Goldbridge criticised Southgate’s management style, which he described as prioritising “fee rates” and nepotism. He explained: “It’s almost like a cult. If you’re at the club, you’re fine, it doesn’t matter if you don’t play for your club.” Such favouritism could jeopardise England’s chances, and Goldbridge urged Southgate to adopt a more merit-based approach.

England’s path to Euro 2024 depends on Southgate’s willingness to make tough decisions. As Mark Goldbridge pointed out, “we have to manage this team unemotionally and intelligently.” Dropping Kane in favour of in-form players like Ivan Toney or Ollie Watkins could provide the spark England need to secure their first major tournament win in decades. The That’s Football podcast makes a compelling case for Southgate to prioritise performance over loyalty as England aim for the Euro 2024 trophy.