julian3129Here I demonstrate the our 4-4-2 diamond defensive position when the opponents are in possessions on the sides.

Forward and target man:
Target man drop slightly to mark their DM/ holding midfield. Having said that, dont get drawn to the side if he moves, stay in the middle to cut through any attempts of cross field passing. Forward should be the only one pressuring the ball under the defenders (just pressurise rather than chasing the ball). Try to cut off their option to switch side and force them to play outwide.

AM:
Drop in the the CM position to become the thrid CM. It is important to level with the other two CM so they are free to track the ball on the sides. Again, dont get drawn away as it is important to have someone in the middle always ready to receive a pass once we regain the possession. Always stay in the middle the become an extra CM.

CM:
Once opponents get the ball, we should change to a flat three position. Its relatively simple when they attack through the middle but as they switch to the side, like above, the LCM should be responsible to follow the ball to the side. At the same time, AM and RCM will become the two centre mid as shown above. If they switch the ball to the other flank, the role of the CMs will be reversed.

Back four:
As I have always stressed, stay tight swift the whole formation with the ball. As you might realise in the situation above, their full back might be free to move up to the field. In such case, the LB should track their attacking FB if he attempts to get pass you. On the other hand, RB should NOT be marking the wide man and STAY TIGHT. DO keep your eyes on him and communicate with your CB such that if the ball is switched you can press the wide man without losing your man. Again communication is key!

20.02.2012