Agree. We have a 25 man + squad. If we can't operate more than one system per season then we really are in trouble.
Willems could work in a 4, but it depends on the DM - who would need to be more disciplined/dedicated. The cartel have played with high full backs in a back four but often have world class dm's to support it - Fernandinho, for example. They also obviously keep possession up the pitch - we have ASM, but Joelinton, Miggy, Gayle, Shelvey, Longstaff, etc., are all prone to easily losing the ball. As a DM, we only really have Hayden, who isn't quite Fernandinho...... Willems would probably be too much of a risk, hence why he's not already here. I suspect Bruce wants to emulate someone like Leicester - flat back four, play through midfield (Hendrick/Shelvey), three in support of one striker.
Just helped paok beat besiktas in the champions League. Leave Greece and champions leave football for us?
Another pointless, fruitless link I reckon The Charnley executive board are in full swing this Summer. I’d be astonished if the club add more than Hendrick.
It's all pretty dull, but after the failed takeover it's no surprise. I see Everton signing James Rodriguez and Leeds signing rodrigo.... It's hard to understand why newcastle fans are sick of Ashley
Very few professional clubs choose to operate more than one system in terms of numbers at the back with any regularity. They may well switch systems around, but largely the back four or back three remains intact. The reason is very obvious - confusion. Defending is about shape, consistency, and being drilled. This isn't Football Manager 2020, these managers are dealing with actual human beings. When we do see it is when things go tits up and they look to try something completely new. I wouldn't set out on a season without a clear plan though, its a terrible idea. I certainly wouldn't go into a season intending to use a back 3 in some games, a back 4 in others, and keep mixing it up all season. It won't work unless you are dealing with the very best players, even then its risky. We know this ourselves. Rafa and Bruce have both found issues trying to switch during a season. Pre season is massive in terms of tactics etc. If you are trying to coach two systems throughout pre season, good luck is all I can say. The really big clubs do this a little more, basically because the quality across their 25 allows them to. Even then though you find they have a preferred system which is drilled. That being said I think Willems is good enough and capable enough to operate in a back 4. Having him in the squad would also allow you that "we're ****ed lets go to a back 3" option. As Roland notes, it just places greater emphasis on the defensive midfielder and how you ask him to operate. I say we get this lad and Willems in. 4.5m and a free, what is not to like
He does look good but let's not forget the gulf in class from the league that makes him look lol the next Gareth bale to the premier league... I would prefer we signed a proper lb also... Or we will more than likely have to summer Paul dummett playing thereuke he did so dreadfully under many managers in the past
