TheNearPostThe wierdest part of this lineup has to be the role of Timothy Chandler. He's acting as what we call a carrilero. He shuttles back and forth between central and right midfield, typically playing the former on defense and the latter on offense. Chandler has all the attributes for such a role. Energy, pace, work rate, bite, crossing, skill. When he does come inside, it could allow Cherundolo up the flank, allowing us an effective way to exploit have two high quality right wingbacks. Brazil used Ramires, and sometimes Dani Alves, in the exact same role to great effect.

The general shape is a 4-3-3. Dempsey and Donovan get the roam of the attacking third. Dempsey drifting into the hole and Chandler motoring down the flank may change the shape into something of a 4-2-3-1. In fact, Dempsey could drag the fullback inside and create space for Chandler to exploit in the oppositions left fullback zone. Defensively, Chandler, Jones, and Bradley act as trio with Donovan and Dempsey staying high up the field. Bocanegra, DeMerit and Ream may shift over sometimes to cover for Cherundolo.

31.03.2011