Gary Neville has raised a few eyebrows with his tactical choices for England’s crucial clash against Slovenia. With the Three Lions already qualified for the Euro 2024 knockout stages, Neville has opted for a more experimental approach, making several surprising changes to the starting XI.

Unlike Gareth Southgate, who is expected to make just one change to the team that drew 1-1 with Denmark, Neville has decided to drop Kieran Trippier, who has been playing out of position at left-back. Instead, he has chosen a bold lineup that includes some unexpected positional switches.

Neville’s team sees Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka switch to opposite flanks

Perhaps the most surprising change is moving Kyle Walker to left-back

Neville advocates for Trent Alexander-Arnold’s inclusion at right-back

Neville initially selected a 3-4-2-1 formation with Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham in central attacking midfield roles, and Bukayo Saka as a left-wing back. However, he ultimately decided to deploy Foden on the right wing and Saka on the left, acknowledging their ability to interchange positions.

Neville explained, “Tweaking the formation to put Foden on the right and Saka on the left can be beneficial. They can both switch positions seamlessly. While Saka might not be entirely pleased, he brings more directness to the game, and Foden has a tendency to roam across the front line.”

Neville also emphasized the importance of having a left-footed player like Saka on the left flank, allowing for a switch of play and providing balance to the team. He acknowledged that Foden, despite being left-footed, is less likely to stick to the wide areas.

The former England defender’s initial lineup included a back three of Walker, John Stones, and Marc Guehi, with Alexander-Arnold and Saka as wing-backs. However, he later adjusted the formation to a back four, with Walker on the left and Alexander-Arnold in a more advanced role on the right.

Neville expressed his desire to keep Alexander-Arnold in the team, recognizing his exceptional talent. He also suggested that Southgate’s potential decision to start Walker at left-back due to Trippier’s fitness concerns influenced his choice.

Neville’s midfield combination of Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo remained intact, with Bellingham just ahead of them. Up front, he opted for a trio of Foden, Harry Kane, and Saka from right to left. This formation, according to Neville, provides flexibility and allows England to stretch the pitch, creating numerous possibilities.

Despite his bold choices, Neville admitted that he was only 80% confident in his team selection, expressing concerns about finding the right balance for England’s talented players. He drew parallels to the 2004 England team, acknowledging that while they had great players, there was no obvious way to get the best out of them all.