Will this change how we play?
NIC says: “In a 4-2-3-1 where the defensive and attacking midfield roles are delineated – I would go Barkley left, Osman centre and Drenthe right as my first choice three – all are comfortable with both feet and are interchangeable in the attacking midfielder berths.
Rodwell and Fellaini would be deployed as the anchor men.
I feel this gives us the best balance of pressing off the ball and ability when in possession. The pace we have lost from Beckford will be replaced by Drenthe pressing and getting in behind defences high up field – probably making our default system 4-2-3-1 and not 4-4-1-1.
Baines is still very much the key attacking outlet – I would be surprised if his role was compromised to accommodate the Dutchman who can be selfish on the ball, so it will be interesting to see where Royston is deployed initially.
Trial and error may be required by Moyes.
