Former England manager, Sam Allardyce, has named Elliot Anderson as the only player in the Three Lions’ squad capable of keeping Lionel Messi quiet in the World Cup semifinal clash.
The 71-year-old emphasized that the new Manchester City player possesses the discipline necessary to manage the Argentina captain.
During his appearance on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce said that Messi does not physically confront his opponents, which would benefit Anderson.
He suggested that the England player should maintain close proximity to the Argentina captain and remain focused without losing concentration.
He stated, “There’s one individual who can keep Messi quiet for me because, firstly, he[Messi]doesn’t challenge you physically too much.
“Secondly, we can afford to sacrifice one player, and that player has had an exceptional World Cup, but I believe he has the discipline to execute this man-for-man marking, which is, in my opinion, essential. Anderson. The rest of the team is outstanding, and we must be cautious in other areas.”
Allardyce further noted that man-for-man marking would likely frustrate Lionel Messi, which could assist in countering the primary threat. He expressed the need to prevent balls from reaching the 39-year-old and added:
“However, you are neutralizing the main threat, and if you maintain your focus, it won’t matter where he goes; just follow him.
“This could greatly frustrate Messi and prevent him from engaging in the game. Often, it seems that they do not pay enough attention to this; they simply wait to capitalize.”
“For instance, that’s why concentration is crucial. If you are moving around like Messi does, especially, he simply waits, and then he’s off. If you lose focus, you not only stop Messi but also disrupt the service, and I believe that presents an opportunity, as demonstrated by other teams.”
Lionel Messi’s Argentina is set to face England in the semifinal on Wednesday, July 15.