England vs. Norway: A Tactical Preview of Saturday's Match

The preparation has been done by Roy Hodgson as he prepares to watch his England side line up against Norway for the first time. Not only is there a great deal of expectation heading into tonight’s game, but also anticipation.

There’ve been questions upon questions regarding Hodgson’s selections, but after tonight we should have a better idea of how well he has chosen.

Carroll and Green to Start

According to the BBC, Hodgson has already come out and stated that Andy Carroll and Rob Green will definitely start for England tonight, a pair of decisions which may puzzle a few.

However, it’s better these players get a trial run out now, rather than in the tournament. It also looks like Gerrard, as captain, will start the match; these are the only pointers that have been given so far.

Hodgson’s Trusty 4-4-1-1

Whilst at Fulham, Hodgson used his favorable 4-4-1-1 setup to great effect, and it seems tonight he could revert to this formation.

At Fulham he played with a “target-man” in the form of Bobby Zamora, whilst playing another just off of him, usually Zoltan Gera. He also employed a similar system for West Bromwich Albion, this time with Peter Odemwingie playing just off of Shane Long. But who cares?

This means there’s a real chance that, with Carroll starting, Steven Gerrard will play just off of him in a  setup similar to what he’s used in recent years.

The Guessing Game

Hodgson’s not given any other obvious pointers; however it seems that Joleon Lescott looks set to line up alongside Phil Jagielka at the heart of the defense, with Leighton Baines on the left.

Another handicap that Roy’s faced with is the injury of right-back Glen Johnson, but it looks as though Phil Jones will slot in as his replacement for the night, unless he calls up Liverpool youngster Martin Kelly.

One could say England’s strongest and most capable back four contains three Chelsea players—John Terry, Gary Cahill and Ashley Cole. Yet it looks like they’ll all be rested, and perhaps feature later on.

In the midfield there’ve been numerous questions asked over the fitness of Scott Parker, but Hodgson announced he will play a part tonight, and I expect that to be from the off.

No doubt in my mind that Gareth Barry will line up next to him, with the Manchester City star brimming with confidence heading into the tournament. The wingers look set to be Ashley Young and Theo Walcott, with Stewart Downing able from the bench.

To conclude, although Hodgson may have only confirmed a handful of players, one can always make assumptions. Due to his history I think there’s a pretty clear game plan in his mind.

Not a Classic, But a Job Well Done

I don’t see this one being a game for the record books, however I do feel England will do enough to win, and win well. This Norwegian side isn’t preparing for an international tournament, and a lack of determination may be an issue for them.

4-1 Win, and bring on the Belgians! 

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