This formation has served us well in recent games, but is this merely a short term fix or has this tweak got the potential to benefit us in the long term.
We have found a number of benefits to this tweak. The setup allows us to press effectively and the defence has looked relatively more comfortable in recent matches with the one goal in the last three conceded. Its fluidity means that we defend better as a team as the wingers can assist the defence with their tracking back, but they are also an asset on the attack, allowing us to maintain width as the inside forwards tuck in to support the lone front man. The result is that we look dangerous offensively without playing an orthodox number nine, especially compared to earlier in the season when we struggled to pose a threat.
The issue with 3-4-3 is that it leaves open to he counter due to its expansive nature, this is by no means an exclusive weakness in a formation, but there were occasions when Chelsea exposed this, although they were never able to fully capitalise. It will be interesting to see how this system fairs and whether a game arises that makes us question its longevity.
If Rodgers did proceed to buy players to suit this style, how would you feel abut this? Is there a belief that playing three or five at the back will ultimately come undone in a league that does tend to favour the traditional four. An example being the criticism that Van Gaal has come under for his 3-5-2. with United fans chanting '4-4-2' at the weekend.
On a separate note, I am impressed with how Markovic and Can have adapted to their roles in the formation. Would you be happy if they continued to play in these somewhat unaccustomed positions for the foreseeable?
Is 3-4-3 for the long term?
posted on 22/1/15
I think a two striker formation is the way to go if we have the players.
I'm still intrigued by the possibility of a Sturridge-Balotelli partnership. The one game we really go to see it in full flow is arguably our best performance this season (Tottenham).
If not maybe Sterling and Sturridge in front of Coutinho and Markovic?
posted on 22/1/15
I think he has changed his mind on buying a striker in this window due to this formation. It does get two of three out of Coutinho, Lallana and Sterling in the number 10 role(s) and if they are behind Sturridge then i think it can do very well.
Also you can go very attacking by playing sterling and Markovic as wing backs.
I agree id like to see Sturridge and Balotelli start a few games together.
But i do think it is dangerous not buying another quick striker as even though sterling has done well up top this formation is built around pace and without Sturridge it can only be Sterling in that role
posted on 22/1/15
Just because Maureen said there was space to attack in this formation does not mean we would get hit on counter regularly. Any formation is open to counter attack.
I think in summer we might look for a new RB and most likely another central midfielder (hopefully Song)
The only issue remains will Sturridge and his injury record because a top trio of Sterling, Cout and Sturridge is exciting on paper with Lallana, Ibe, Markovic, Tex as alternatives.
I think 3-4-3 is here to stay. Can and Sakho are quality with the ball coming out and Skrtel can just do what he prefers which is to defend/shirt pull.
posted on 22/1/15
Some of you are stating the wish to see two strikers. Do you think that this 3-4-3 could adapt to a 3-4-1-2 with one attacking mid instead of two? My personal view is that we are not as effective this year with the 4 at the back in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 . Although that being said, a return to the diamond, which proved successful in the latter part of last year.
posted on 22/1/15
Could prove me wrong ^^^
posted on 22/1/15
The way our manager has used a variety of systems I don't think anything is set in stone long term.
This season we have struggled defensively when playing systems which utilise a back four. With three centre backs we are able to defend set pieces and crossed balls into the box more effectively which I think is important.
We have also struggled to create chances with a back four. The wingbacks provide a bit more natural width allowing the wing forwards to find space between the defence and midfield. Opponents have so far struggled to adapt to this which has allowed us to create more chances playing this way.
I don't foresee us adding players to the squad (although we could sign a keeper) in this this window. If this is right I think the 3-4-3 will remain until the end of the season. After that it's anyone's guess what will happen. The players we sign and sell will dictate what happens going forward.
posted on 22/1/15
I think 3-4-3 is a useful formation for Liverpool to use and as you've said, it's served you well. Along with some of the minor problems you have said, the big problem is the counter attack.
If the team can defend quickly in transition phase then you should do fine. But if teams take a risk and leave 3/4 men on your defence, you're going to have a problem as it leaves you far too open especially in wide spaces on the counter attack and in transition phases.
posted on 22/1/15
comment by Game glorious game (U20286)
posted 12 minutes ago
I think 3-4-3 is a useful formation for Liverpool to use and as you've said, it's served you well. Along with some of the minor problems you have said, the big problem is the counter attack.
If the team can defend quickly in transition phase then you should do fine. But if teams take a risk and leave 3/4 men on your defence, you're going to have a problem as it leaves you far too open especially in wide spaces on the counter attack and in transition phases.
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Can is a beast in phisical terms and second half he had Hazard in his pocket.
He has the pace and power to match any physical striker with pace. This count for Sakho also.
posted on 22/1/15
Carra said can had a half to forget because he conceded a penalty
Handled hazard very well bar that mistake
posted on 22/1/15
We will change formations regularly under Rodgers I think.
He likes to think of new ideas and implement them, and is aware that other managers will find the weaknesses in those over time, so will be working on something new while the going is good on the current trend.
The 3-4-2-1 might last this season, but I wouldn't bet on it lasting into next.