England’s lackluster performance in their 1-1 draw with Denmark has left manager Gareth Southgate with a conundrum to solve ahead of their crucial final group game against Slovenia.

With key players underperforming and tactical decisions backfiring, Southgate has his work cut out to reshape his team into Euro contenders.

One of the main dilemmas is who should partner Declan Rice in midfield. While Trent Alexander-Arnold failed to impress in that role against Denmark, there are limited options available. Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook has been touted as a potential solution, but he wasn’t included in the squad. Instead, Southgate may opt for Conor Gallagher, who replaced Alexander-Arnold during the Denmark game, or he could make a bolder move by deploying Jude Bellingham in a deeper position.

Another pressing issue is the utilization of Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham. Foden has struggled on the left wing, often drifting into more central areas. A potential solution is to move Foden to the number 10 role, allowing him to play in his preferred position. As for Bellingham, he needs to adapt his game to provide more control and discipline in midfield, rather than treating it as a free role. This would help address England’s issues with maintaining possession and protecting the defense.

The left-wing position is also a concern, with Anthony Gordon being the only natural left-winger in the squad. If Southgate has chosen him over Jack Grealish, it makes sense to give Gordon a chance to showcase his abilities.

The situation at left-back is equally tricky. With Luke Shaw still unavailable, Kieran Trippier has been filling in, but it’s not his natural position. The longer Shaw remains out, the more likely Trippier will be needed in the knockout stages, creating a selection headache for Southgate.

Lastly, there’s the question of whether Southgate should play with two strikers. Harry Kane doesn’t appear fully fit, and backup options Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney have been used primarily in training. While Watkins provides an outlet and an option for long balls, he missed a crucial chance against Denmark. For now, Southgate seems content to rely on Kane as his main striker, aware that playing two up front would weaken the midfield further.

With these challenges, Southgate has a lot to ponder as he aims to get England back on track and into contention for the Euros.

The Three Lions have been underwhelming in their opening two matches of the tournament

Southgate must piece together the puzzle that is England’s starting XI ahead of Slovenia clash

There are questions as to where Phil Foden (left) and Jude Bellingham (right) should play

Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon (right) could be brought into the side on the left wing

First-choice left back Luke Shaw has been unavailable for the Three Lions thus far in Germany