Monday 9 October 2017 23:18, UK
Gareth Southgate says a three-man defence is "a better option" for England as they build towards the World Cup.
The former England U21 boss says he plans to persevere with the system, even if it means good players missing out on selection.
Southgate has played three at the back on various occasions during his reign, including against Lithuania on Sunday, when World Cup qualification was already assured.
He now plans to commit to the system as England turn their minds towards high-profile friendlies against Germany and Brazil in November.
Southgate said: "I think we have got to focus on a system and really try to hone it, work on it, improve it.
"That might mean we might have to leave some good players out, but I think we have to start to make those decisions over the next couple of camps."
Asked if playing three at the back was the way forwards, he said: "Yes, I think for us it is.
"For me, in terms of the way we'd want to play from the back, I think it's a better option.
"At the moment we turn the ball over too much and when we turn it over, we split into two centre-backs, we're wide open.
"We were still open (against Lithuania) with three, so it would be a benefit if we didn't keep turning the ball over.
"But I think it gives us good stability and it gives easier solutions for our midfield players as well. Then what we play in front of it, there is a possibility to switch, maybe get two strikers in certain games.
"We felt keep the system as we have used it before, because it is such a quick turnaround of games.
"Three in midfield with two forwards also becomes an option, but I think three at the back is what we ought to do."
