Chelsea used a smart ploy last night and I have (regrettably) seen Arsenal use it to good effect as well this season. When the opposition are in possession you swarm 2 or 3 players quickly around the on-baller and force him into an error. Some pundits call it pressing, but I think pressing is when one man closes down another.
Only the very best technical players have the composure to pick a pass out of the crowd around them, and despite City having several such players on the pitch last night, they failed to overcome it. This only works in a 5 man MF and works especially well when you have at least 2 defensively minded players in there (Luiz and Matic last night). Your MFs also have to be super fit. It also helps when you have an extremely well drilled back four as Chelsea had last night.
I believe we could use this lineup against the better teams, with either/both Sandro and Capoue, Paulinho and Dembele plus creativity from Eriksen and/or Townsend when fit.
Swarming midfield
posted on 4/2/14
The thing that struck me last night, is that no matter what formation/system a manager chooses to adopt, he has to have the players that can carry-out his instructions to a tee. Furthermore, the players need to believe in what they're being asked to do.
I saw a Chelsea team that worked extremely hard last night and they were clearly playing for their manager - that is the special thing about Mourinho, he always seems to get the players to fight for him.
I would love to see Spurs players show that fighting never-say-die spirit. Unfortunately, we have good technical players who seem to concentrate on the tactics, but don't go that extra mile to get that vital win (particularly against weaker teams) defend a lead, or ensure that better teams don't run riot against us..
However, to end on a bright note, I think this spirit will eventually be instilled either by Sherwood or Van Gaal (if appointed).
posted on 4/2/14
no chance....as it reqiures organisation and focus.....both of which we have neither of.
posted on 4/2/14
you murdered that junction
posted on 4/2/14
yeah....well im not supposed to be on the 'puter at wrk...so its all a bit rushed...
posted on 4/2/14
However, to end on a bright note, I think this spirit will eventually be instilled either by Sherwood or Van Gaal (if appointed
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is there not rumours that alot of players are struggling with sherwood....
posted on 4/2/14
is there not rumours that alot of players are struggling with sherwood
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I don't pay too much attention to rumours. However, I did mention Van Gaal. The implication being that Tim would be relieved of his duties in the summer if he doesn't shape up
posted on 4/2/14
I think there are a couple of keys to doing this well and if the team aren’t drilled correctly then it can actually be detrimental. When pressing high up the pitch you need to do it in numbers otherwise all that happens is they’ve drawn one of two players out of the game and pick you off, in numbers they are often forced back to the keeper who in turn is force in to a hurried clearance and possibly loses possession.
When doing it deeper in your own half when one goes forward another needs to drop back in to the correct zone as to not leave a space to exploit, you can see a team that has been drilled by a manger to do this, as soon as one goes another knows it is their job to cover, it is very difficult to play against if done well and Mourinho has got the team doing it very well, as you’d expect.
posted on 4/2/14
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