--- title: "England Coach Seeks Edge in World Cup Bid After 7-0 Rout of Croatia" url: https://noti.group/england-coach-seeks-edge-in-world-cup-bid-after-7-0-rout-of-croatia/ language: en publisher: "Noti Group" section: "Sports" published: 2026-10-05T18:00:49.000Z updated: 2026-10-06T07:50:24.621Z id: 3ddc87ef-123e-466d-8a95-715aaa317d83 source: "The Guardian Sport https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/05/jude-awakening-how-a-more-fluid-england-are-unlocking-bellinghams-full-potential" attribution: "Link to https://noti.group/england-coach-seeks-edge-in-world-cup-bid-after-7-0-rout-of-croatia/ and name Noti Group when you quote or summarize this story." --- # England Coach Seeks Edge in World Cup Bid After 7-0 Rout of Croatia Anthony Barry is analyzing every detail from England's semi-final finish at the World Cup to see what will give them an edge over their opponents. England's assistant coach Anthony Barry is already thinking about the next step towards World Cup glory after a 7-0 rout of Croatia in the Nations League. The team has been analyzing every detail from the semi-final finish at the World Cup to see what will give them an edge over their opponents. Barry, who works closely with head coach Thomas Tuchel, has been pouring over the data and discussions have become so intense that he's even joking about driving his boss mad. A key element in unlocking England's full potential is creating a more fluid structure on the pitch. This new approach gives their top players the freedom to express themselves without being constrained by rigid formations or positions. The benefits of this system were evident in Saturday's match, where Jude Bellingham played with increased liberty, drifting and overloading on either flank as he often had possession of the ball. In his No 10 role, Bellingham was able to utilize his skills more effectively, and Barry believes that this liberation is essential for England's top players to reach their full potential. Bellingham's versatility is well-documented, having played various roles for his club and country. His ability to adapt and thrive in different positions has been a hallmark of his game, and it's an aspect that England's coaches are now capitalizing on. The more fluid structure of the team allows Bellingham to play from instinct rather than being confined to a specific role. This freedom has brought out the best in him, with Barry attributing his success to this approach. The challenge for England lies in finding a balance between harnessing Bellingham's abilities and giving him the space to operate freely within a game. The shift towards a more fluid England team has allowed Jude Bellingham to thrive by giving him the freedom to operate within a game. In the recent match against Croatia, it was clear that the team's blueprint involved players venturing into new zones, with full-backs positioned high up the pitch and wingers making runs off the sides. This approach emphasizes combinations between players, prioritizing slick passing while also encouraging individuals to drop into unusual areas for cover. Footballing intelligence is key in maintaining the overall structure of the team. The intensity of England's counterpress was a notable feature of the match, with players working together to regain possession within seconds of losing it. This pressure overwhelmed Croatia, particularly in the first half when England scored four goals. The management hopes that this proactive approach will drive the team forward in the coming tournament cycle, as they face Czechia at Wembley on Tuesday night. The new style is no longer strictly positional, instead offering a more freewheeling approach to the game. The England team's new approach has led to a more flexible and dynamic style of play, says coach Barry. This shift towards fluidity is anchored by key principles that guide player movement and decision-making on the field. With a talented group of players, the team has been able to quickly adapt to this new model, which emphasizes interchanging positions and creating space for individual creativity. Harry Kane is set to equal a significant England record on Tuesday night when he wins his 125th cap. This milestone comes as a testament to his dedication and leadership qualities that have made him an integral part of the team. Barry's praise for Kane is unwavering, highlighting his exceptional ball-striking skills, which Barry rates as the best among any player he has worked with. His experience in managing Portugal and working alongside Cristiano Ronaldo adds credibility to his assessment. --- Source: [The Guardian Sport](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/05/jude-awakening-how-a-more-fluid-england-are-unlocking-bellinghams-full-potential) Published by Noti Group: https://noti.group/england-coach-seeks-edge-in-world-cup-bid-after-7-0-rout-of-croatia/