We need to find a better system for our players

Sissoko isn't as good in a forward position. He's needs to be further back. He also doesn't work in a deep defensive role, but he's better playing as a box to box mid.

At first I was happy with Cabaye being so deep, it seems like a good idea, but I think he's been a bit off recently in that position. I'd personally play him more advanced.

---------Cisse---------

Marveaux--------Jonas/Ben Arfa
----------Cabaye---------

------Sissoko-------------
-----------Perch/Tiote--------

Haidara--Mbiwa--Saylor--Simpson

----------Krul-----------

Sissoko dropped back, but allowed more freedom to go up and down, with a defensive mid sitting deep. Some people would put Tiote in the deep position, and it is his best position, but I really don't want to risk playing him now in a game like this.

I really get scared when I see him on the team sheet. I'd prefer Perch there. He's reliable, great in the tackle, good on the ball and I'd play him in that position. He's comfortable at the back.

I know Haidara had a bit of a shakey game vs Benfica, but he got into some great positions and put some decent balls across the deck. Plus he's just come back from injury. His performances before this game have been very good IMO.

For the time being, I think he should be at LB if Santon is out.

 

This feels a bit odd to say, but I 100% agree with everything in this post.

 

christ. this too. I agree totally.

 

I just think Sissoko is tired. he has barely missed a minute since arriving and is still adapting to a new league. Whilst I think he is better suited to a deeper role, I fully understand why Pardew has used him there with our current lack of options. I also think he is fully effective there.

 

I don't think there is anything wrong with the system that Pardew is playing - as you say, Sissoko is perhaps yet to discover his best position within the team, but there is nothing wrong with the way we're playing.

 

Good post and agree with most of it.
I think Cabaye is looking tired and jaded but did seem to come to life when HBA came on as did most of the players.

 

Must say I agree with your post. The only thing is that I don't necessarily see Cabaye as a player who is natural to that central attacking midfield role. He's integral to the team, and I think Pardew makes the right call playing him in the centre of midfield, only I'd partner him with Sissoko. Tiote I would leave out altogether from the starting lineup, as he hasn't upped his game after a poor last season.
Ideally you need a kind of second striker for the CAM position, or some kind of trequarista - good at picking out a killer pass or two and with an eye for goal. On paper at least Ben Arfa fits that description quite well, but he has seemed more effective cutting in from the right wing than down the middle. Maybe worth looking into signing someone decent for this role?