gazlfcforeverWatching the Italy game it was clear that Hodgson's tactics were out of date, in order to use that formation you can't use Rooney in the number 10 role since he doesn't close down the deep playmaker and often loses the ball when surrounded by midfielders. Here we use Jones in an advanced role but instead of a playmaker he acts as a advanced defensive midfielder with the job of winning the ball back from the defensive midfielders and playing the ball simple.
He could also drop into midfield and morph the formation into 4-3-3 or drop to defence and make a 3-4-3. Jones is the key to this formation because of his ability to play in multiple roles and Rooney would have freedom to move inside and cross from the left. The other change I would make is to press a lot more from the front at the half way line and move Jones back when the opposition advance past the half way line this would stop the 4 on 2 situation that happened in the Italy game.
Quick counters are possible on the wings using Walcott, Rooney and Welbeck, ball retention will be much easier with at least three players in the centre midfield zone. Rooney moving inside and Welbeck dropping deep would allow midfield runners and a slicker passing game.
27.06.2012
nvrWe have to accept the fact that Rooney isn't delivering in tournaments. My only criticism to him is not realising this quick enough and cutting him loose.
Hodgson's tactics suited England's squad quite well IMHO. We don't have the quality we used to have 2 or 4 years ago. Hodgson has overachieved in this one. Most people were not expecting us to survive group stages.
28.06.2012
chicarooneyWhy Jones as a atttacking midfelder?
29.06.2012
gazlfcforeverHe isn't. He's in a ADM (Advanced Defensive Midfielder) role. Instead of attacking as a creative midfielder he instead wins the ball higher up the pitch and pressures the defensive midfielders of the opposition. He also offers flexible formation options by moving back into midfield, defensive midfield or defense and can change the whole shape of the side easily.
29.06.2012
G.K.A big fan of the idea.
30.06.2012
