Czech Republic 2-1 England: 5 Talking Points and Tactical Analysis | European Qualifiers 2019/20

#3 England’s alarming lack of attacking quality

England's offensive weapons misfired

England came into the game against the Czech Republic having scored 19 goals in their previous 4 qualifying games, thereby averaging a healthy 4.75 goals per match.

Thus, plenty expected them to turn the screw in Prague and put in another offensive masterclass, a prospect made more realistic considering the quality at their disposal.

However, nothing of that sort materialised and the Three Lions were forced to feed off meagre scraps, meaning that they only managed a solitary goal and 4 shots on target, despite enjoying the majority of the ball.

On numerous occasions, the visitors’ approach play looked static as the midfielders and forwards failed to provide adequate passing options. Though the hosts wonderfully cut out several passing lanes, the lack of movement from England played into the Czechs’ hands.

In addition, Jadon Sancho was quite anonymous throughout the match, in the process, forcing Kieran Trippier to bomb forward to provide width on the right flank. The above enabled the home side to contain the threat on the wings.

And, though Kane enjoyed a superb outing playing as the lone centre forward, those around him failed to come to the party.

Ever since Southgate has been installed at the helm, the Three Lions have seemed to prioritise creativity over calculation, subsequently morphing into a relatively effervescent attacking side.

Yet, on Friday, those ingredients went awry and rather spectacularly at that.