passing philosophy and defending obviously aren't mutually exclusive

but we have clearly changed approach in the last few games. Earlier in the season the midfield was filled with attacking, skillful players (plus Naismith) and the emphasis was on patient build up trying to overwhelm the opposition like Man City or Barcelona do. But we weren't very good at it and kept getting destroyed on the counter attack.

The last few games we have played with a much more defensive minded midfield, with the focus on protecting the defence and starting from a solid foundation. There have been fewer passes around midfield - particularly yesterday - and players have a definied role. Whether defensive (Tettey, Trybull) or ball carriers (Murphy/Wildschut), or chasers (Jerome) and very few of our midfield are now being played for their short passing - it's a much more pragmatic selection now. Which is a massive change in philosophy.

Posted By: Mecagoenti, Sep 17, 09:18:31