Dubai: England needs a backline like Leicester City’s if they are to succeed at this summer’s European Championships, according to Three Lions legend Peter Shilton.
“I think we’ve got a chance of reaching the semi-finals and even winning it, but we just need a bit of what Leicester have got in the back four,” said England’s highest cap-holder.
“We are going in the right direction with a lot of young talented players in midfield and going forward, like Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy, Dele Alli, I’ve always liked Jack Wilshere if he’s fit, and Ross Barkley is talented.
“But the one area of concern is the back four, where we give away too many easy goals. I’m not saying we’re weak at the back, I just feel we could be stronger as a defence, because at some point we are going to give our opponents a chance.
“If John Stones could develop and the back four get stronger we could have a really good tournament.
“Joe Hart is confident and a good influence on his teammates so maybe with the right saves at the right time he will make the difference.”
Shilton said England’s defensive frailties would dictate the formation and whether coach Roy Hodgson would play two up front.
“For Kane and Vardy to play together Hodgson has to play 4-4-2, but I think he will be wary of the problems at the back and play five in midfield with two holding midfielders. If that’s the case he’ll start with Kane alone up front and bring Vardy on as a late sub.
“I’d still take Wayne Rooney because he’s got a lot of experience and leadership qualities but Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge are other options.”
Of England’s group with Russia, Wales and Slovakia, Shilton added: “On paper we should qualify. It would be a massive disappointment if we don’t, but it’s never easy. Wales won’t lie down and they’ve got one of the best players in the world in Gareth Bale so we will have to see.”
