Why England should consider a 4-3-3 formation

Roy Hodgson faced a tactical dilemma with the 4-2-3-1 against Italy

A spirited but bludgeoned English side did fail to bear the weight of the nation but there ostensibly are good days ahead. As a do or die clash against Uruguay beckons, Roy Hodgson has to get his tactics right after a tactical disaster against the Italians.

Of course, Roy did defy objections which suggested he's not bold enough to make changes but that costed him big time. His decision to shift Wayne Rooney to the left flank was debatable but controversial for the man involved . Wayne Rooney racked up quibbles against the way he played but it is not entirely his fault ,is it? After all, he was playing out of position!

His preferred role was taken up by teenager Raheem Sterling, who succeeded in delivering a stellar performance. But, the major problem which the whole side had to face off with was the problem of the exposure of the left side of defense. Rooney, failed to track back and full back Leighton Baines was subjected to regular one-on-ones with Antonio Candreva and Matteo Darmian. The exposure of the left flank lead to the two Italian goals as Baines failed to cope up and his resolve eventually collapsed.

Now, if Hodgson would still prefer Rooney to play wide, it would be a huge problem for the England side and would serve as a death knell.

But, a formation change to 4-3-3 (wide) can effectively help them cover this problem up.

Rooney would, of course feature on the left, Welbeck on the right and Sturridge in the middle as a False 9. Or Else, Rooney and Sturridge can interchange their roles considering the 28 year old's physical strength and his ability to act as a midfield general. Sterling can sit just behind Sturridge or for the better, replace Welbeck on the right.

Oxlade Chamberlain , who was utilized as a central midfielder and as a left midfielder by Arsene Wenger would be a joy to watch just behind the left forward. This would prevent the opening up of the left flank and extreme stability and speed on the wing. Jordan Henderson or Jack Wilshere can effectively perform the job of shielding the fragile right back Glen Johnson and can also provide efficient support to the right forward.

Steven Gerrard can do all sorts of things behind the False 9 including orchestrating the play and helping the side dominate possession. He can sit deep, much like what he's doing at Liverpool by providing some shelter to the struggling back four.

The protection offered to the full backs can prove crucial against Luis Suarez's impeccable speed and Edison Cavani's 'everything'. With Stevie G in front of the back four, the defense can stop spaces to be opened up by opposing attacking runs

This formation, apart from being the most followed is also a useful means for launching swift counter attacks and dominate possession equally well. The outgoing Spanish side committed men in the heart of the midfield to dominate possession and spring upon the opposition with equal flair and panache during counters. A key role will be taken by Steven Gerrard and much like what he's been doing for years at Anfield, he can possibly spray delightful long balls out towards the flanks and maintain solidarity around him as well.