10 Reasons For England Fans To Be Optimistic After World Cup 2018
2. A New Identity
Finally, after years of 4-4-2 and managers just throwing the best players onto the pitch and hoping for the best, England actually seem to have an identity. They weren't the most creative side, but they went into games with a clear idea of how they were going to play.
Gareth Southgate's switch to a back five really looks like a masterstroke. Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Harry Maguire all had a great tournament, with each man chipping in with vital blocks, clearances and interceptions over the course of the cup.
Meanwhile, Ashley Young and especially Kieran Trippier were given the freedom to roam up and down the flanks and whip in crosses for Harry Kane. Jordan Henderson, England's anchor man, clearly understood his role and operated effectively as a shield for the defence, while more creative players like Lingard, Sterling, and Alli tried to make things happen further up the pitch.
Over the course of the tournament, England became known as a tough nut to crack, demonstrating defensive solidity, lethal set pieces, and smart ball retention in most of their games. It wasn't always the prettiest football to watch, but Gareth Southgate clearly worked out a way to get the best from his men and set a great standard for future tournaments.