Interesting analysis. Some pundits suggested that we had met Everton on an off day, whereas we were difficult to play. This may be the way for us to get results at the top sides. The tiring nature of this tactic suggests that we need to increase our quality in depth. On any other day, we would have scored with so many good attempts...could be a very interesting season if we can maintain this style of play.
I think it is amusing that Pochettino didn't seem to get much stick for starting Do Prado, nor for inserting De Ridder late in the game. Had Adkins done this, there would have been some moaning that using Do Prado is "negative tactics" and De Ridder coming on means Saints "gave up" and settled for an 0-0 tie and Saints could have won this game. Not that I think Pochettino did anything wrong. But he had to wrestle with the same issues Adkins did which is not enough depth and players running out of gas (or in Puncheon's case too much gas?). We can't go for 90 minutes with our best first team playing a high energy game. But it's cool. I like when we're all united like this.
This is why I see new additions coming in during the window other than Forren. At the moment Pochettino really doesn't have much option than running similar tactics to Adkins. He needs new additions to change up the way we play.
A very interesting article which explains with data how the dynamics of the game changed through the game. The players are going to have to up their fitness levels in order to maintain the high pressure/pressing game. This could mean an increase in injuries and bookings. If this is the result of this change of style then we will need a far bigger and deeper in quality squad. Presently our squad is paper thin as we have seen so another four or five will have to be added and will probably need smaller and lighter built players who can maintain the levels of activity for the whole game. Interesting times!
