England adopt Chelsea tactics as Antonio Conte influence continues to grow
England took on Germany in their first game since Gareth Southgate was formally put in charge and they set-up in a formation familiar to Chelsea fans.
Antonio Conte has transformed Chelsea since arriving last summer. The Italian has instilled his own brand of football and the success he has enjoyed has forced other teams to rethink their own tactics. The latest team to adopt Conte’s system is England. Gareth Southgate sent them out in a 3-4-3 for their game against Germany.
In a indication of just how comprehensive Chelsea’s resurgence has been, Southgate used the 3-4-3 in his first game since being given the full-time role. More importantly, England showed many encouraging signs during their 1-0 loss.
The Blues have trail-blazed since their notorious performance against Arsenal last year. At that point, rumours of an early exit for Conte were swirling. However, his second-half switch to the 3-4-3 was the dawn of a dominant ascent to the top of the league.
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Numerous teams have tried to match Chelsea’s set-up, especially in fixtures against them. Few have enjoyed success, realising that specialist and well-drilled players are essential for such a unique system.
Tottenham Hotspur were the only outfit to adapt profitably, defeating the Blues at their second bite of the cherry. Mauricio Pochettino has now deployed the 3-4-3 as his default formation.
England took steps in following suit against Germany. Kyle Walker and Ryan Bertrand were chosen as the wingbacks, while Gary Cahill partnered Chris Smalling and Michael Keane in the defensive trio.
Southgate’s men played some fluid and eye-catching football, although they failed to finish their chances. The freedom offered by the system to Adam Lallana and Deli Alli was evident as the duo revelled in time and space to show their attacking intent.
Southgate talked about the formation in his post-game interview, stating his contentment with the display.
"We have to reflect on a very good performance…It was a good way to impose ourselves on them, to have attacking positions which could cause them problems and that’s how it panned out. – via BBC Sport"
He also revealed that he settled on the 3-4-3 over a month ago.
The increasing adoption of the 3-4-3 is proof of how impressive Chelsea have been this season. They haven’t scrapped or battled their way to the top, they have risen with a certain degree of ease and elegance.
However, while other teams are just taking to the 3-4-3, the Blues are preparing for their next evolution. The wide belief is that a 3-5-2 is where Conte wants to end up for next season. Summer recruitment will be targeted to enable what the boss deems a superior system.
What do you think? Will the 3-5-2 be better? Can any other team replicate Chelsea’s success in the 3-4-3? Sound off in the comments below!