mbillington10This formation would be best suited for home games, as if it was an away fixture I would invert the midfield triangle to have two holding midfield players and one attacking midfield player to provide extra security.

This formation would turn into a 4-1-4-1 without possession to ensure that the defence does not get too close to the midfield in the defensive phase, thus lowering the risk of getting 'pinned in' own half, whilst providing the defensive security of two banks of four.

This formation would be played with a high line and aggressive pressing.

Reina's role would be that of sweeper keeper, compensating for the high defensive line by pushing up. He also has the abiliy to distribute the ball effectively to launch counter attacks.

Carragher is the marshal of the back four with the responsibilty of coordinating the back line. Agger will be the one who brings the ball out of defence, particularly against ultradefensive teams.

Insua and Johnson will provide overlapping runs to allow Gerrard and Suarez to cut inside. They will have the responsibility of being the out-ball when trying to retain possession playing a short, patient passing game.

Lucas will have the role of breaking up the opponents attacks and doubling with the fullback to eliminate threats from the flanks. He will play as a quarterback when in possession, playing short passes to the fullbacks and central midfielders attempting to pull the opposition out of position.

Mereiles and Aquilani will be responsible for linking the defence and the attack and ensuring a quick, one-touch transition from the defensive phase to the counter attack. They will have to get on the end of Carroll's knock downs and link ups, and will have the responsibility of playing penetrative passes through the defence for the runners, Gerrard and Suarez. They must also track back defensively to ensure Lucas is not overrun by the opponenets counter attacks.

Suarez and Gerrard's starting position will be out wide on the flank, particularly in the defensive phase of play to prevent opposition full backs from roaming forward. They will press aggressively when high up the pitch. In possession, they will drift inside to lose their markers and look to play between the lines, linking play and dragging players out of position creating two-on-ones. When Carroll drops deep or wide they must look to run into the space he has created so the midfield players can play through balls.

Carroll will be the focal point of the attack. He will be responsible for winning headers, and holding up the ball to relieve pressure on the defence and midfield. He will look to drop very deep when linking play in order to drag the centre backs out of position allowing Gerrard or Suarez to run in behind. He will also drift to the wings to receive the ball, creating confusion and allowing Suarez or Gerrard to cut into the central position. When not in possession he must look to stay as far forward as possible to prevent the opposition defence from pushing up, and he must press the centre backs when not in possession. When the ball is in the wide position he must ensure his presence in the box and have the movement to lose his marker.

09.05.2011