England’s game plan to beat Germany -hit them on the counter attack and make set pieces count
England have issues but the task of securing a morale-boosting victory on Monday night is not beyond them as Germany arrive in London in a difficult moment of their own.
Though the Three Lions have suffered the anguish of relegation, Hansi Flick’s side have fared little better with just one win from five in group 4.
Sportsmail was in Leipzig last Friday to see Germany lose 1-0 against Hungary and assesses the three areas where Gareth Southgate’s men can profit.
Hansi Flick’s Germany side struggled defensively against Hungary on Friday night in Leipzig
Hit them on the counter to punish their high line
Germany had lots of possession against Hungary but they failed to break their opponents down and were vulnerable to quick breaks. Hungary scored one but, really, should have had a couple more.
Niklas Sule will have a new defensive partner on Monday night, with Antonio Rudiger suspended, and full backs Jonas Hofmann and David Raum will need to avoid being caught high up the pitch.
Phil Foden, Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling have the speed to worry the German back line.
Antonio Rudiger’s absence through suspension will leave Germany vulnerable on the counter
Shut down Kimmich to win midfield battle
There was widespread derision from Germany’s fans for the performance they produced against Hungary but exempt from criticism was Bayern midfield maestro Joshua Kimmich.
His range of passing and energy are a joy to behold.
If he is allowed to set the tone for the game, England will be in trouble.
Keeping Joshua Kimmich quiet will be the key to winning the midfield battle on Monday night
Learn from Hungary and make set-plays count
Inquests were conducted over the goal Hungary scored in the Red Bull Arena — a simple flick at the near post from a corner — and Germany didn’t defend with any kind of authority in a dismal opening 45 minutes.
Gareth Southgate has men who can deliver outstanding dead balls (might this be a night for Trent Alexander-Arnold?) and they must look to make every opportunity count.
Germany haven’t kept a clean sheet in this Nations League campaign. England must add to their woes.
Germany were made to pay after poor defending from set-pieces handed Hungary their goal