World Cup 2018: 5 reasons why England's recently employed back-three system is doomed to fail in Russia

#3 Midfield holes

Eric Dier attempts a tackle

Often accused of being conservative, England this year appear to be heading to Russia with a remarkably attacking first eleven. All of Raheem Sterling, Jesse Lingard and Dele Alli are predicted to line-up behind Harry Kane, leaving just one player in a deep-lying midfield role.

That means that whoever is appointed to the "number six" role - the leading candidates being Eric Dier and Jordan Henderson - faces an enormous burden of responsibility. Not only do they have to shield the defence, they also have to collect the ball from deep and help launch attacks.

In this regard, Gareth Southgate's side are unique. Most other nations heading to Russia are expected to deploy a double pivot, giving them greater protection for their defences and giving them an extra passing channel in the centre of the park.

While the forwards will undoubtedly be encouraged to drop back in support of their teammates, their attacking instincts will leave gaping holes when their opponents have possession. Teams like Belgium will punish that.