When England plays Switzerland in their Euro 2024 quarterfinal on Saturday night, they will be without a vital player at the back in Marc Guehi.
The Crystal Palace player has stepped in to fill the vacuum created by Harry Maguire‘s injury, starting alongside John Stones in each of the Three Lions’ four games in Germany.
With Guehi doing so well for his country, England’s defense has been the least of Gareth Southgate’s concerns despite the lack of originality in their assault.
The 23-year-old has put in a series of commanding performances and has a strong case for being his nation’s player of the tournament so far.
But the England boss will be unable to call upon him today against an impressive Swiss side looking to end their Euro dreams today.
Why is Marc Guehi not playing against Switzerland?
Guehi will serve a one-match suspension today as the result of a yellow card he picked up after just three minutes in last Sunday’s last 16 win over Slovakia.
The former Chelsea youngster had previously been booked in England’s final group game against Slovenia.
Two yellow cards have earned him a one match suspension – but should England be victorious today, he will once again be available for their semi-final showdown against Netherlands or Turkey.
Who will replace Marc Guehi?
Aston Villa star Ezri Konsa is expected to take Guehi’s place in the side.
Guehi has played alongside Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier and Stones as a back four but his absence will prompt a reshuffle from Southgate who will name a back three formation later today.
Konsa will join Stones in defence with Walker moving inside to form that back three.
How England will line up against Switzerland?
Trippier is expected to move over to a more familiar role at right wing-back with Bukayo Saka set to take up a left wing-back role.
Since losing to Italy in the final of the Euro 2020 tournament, England has not employed a back three formation in a competitive game.