Former England captain Alan Shearer has identified areas where the national team can improve during their World Cup campaign, despite acknowledging that individual talent can overcome tactical shortcomings.
Shearer highlighted that while the team possesses "big-hitters" capable of producing decisive moments, he would prefer to see a system that consistently generates chances through open play. He pointed to Jude Bellingham's goal against Panama, where he turned in a corner, as an example of a moment that masked underlying issues.
"Ideally, we wouldn't be relying on someone to get us a goal out of nothing," Shearer wrote. "I'd prefer it if our system was providing us with a platform for creating lots of chances in open play, but there are going to be times like that in every game where things are not working for you."
He further elaborated on attacking strategy, suggesting that crosses delivered from the outside by wingers are more effective than those cut inside. Shearer referenced Bellingham's assist for Harry Kane's goal as a successful example of this approach, allowing the forward to attack the ball effectively.
"We look more dangerous when they go on the outside then put crosses in, like Bellingham did for Kane's goal. That way, the forward can make his run once he knows it is coming, and attack the ball," he explained.
Looking ahead to potential future opponents like DR Congo, who are expected to defend deeply and look for counter-attacks, Shearer stressed the importance of learning to break down organized defenses. He noted that such matches will test the team's ability to adapt and create scoring opportunities against compact opposition.
While Shearer believes there are many reasons for optimism regarding England's performance so far in the World Cup, he concluded that having a settled side is not yet one of them, indicating that tactical adjustments and improved attacking cohesion are still being sought.