hello (4-3-3-0) vs Away team (3-3-2-2) - Man Utd v Everton Expected lineup/formation - - ShareMyTactics.com
Submitted on
Everton have played this formation regularly, especially against the big teams. It can sometimes look like a false 9 formation but I think it's more of a lopsided 4-4-2; something in the ilk of Real Madrid in the latter stages of last season. The effect of Lukaku was specially evident against Arsenal, where Mertersacker would be dragged across to help Gibbs and Naismith would then run into the gaps. United don't have a strong defence, but rather than this, LVG concentrates on the balance of a team with an emphasis on his available offensive options. His 5 back formation at the beginning of the season was partly due to wanting to play 2 strikers and a 10, while identifying the lack of good 'shuttling' midfielders. With Herrara out, the same is once again true, though, this formation can be also called a 4-diamond-2. It will be interesting during kick-ins to see if Di maria marks the right fullback (if ball is in Everton's right side) or right winger (when ball is on Everton's left), or if he marks a midfielder. As LVG likes his midfielders to press the opposition within a high block, it will be interesting to see if Blind or Di Maria goes to Mcarthy. Possibly, Fletcher will mark Besic and Mata will mark Barry when Everton play into midfield. Lukaku was also dominant against Liverpool's Moreno and the size difference between the two was telling. With a quicker centre back and the cover of 3 in defence, Lukaku's threat should be structurally nullified. Also, the last remaining defender can pick up Naismith. McCarthy plays the 'Isco' role in being a central player covering defensively apathetic attackers and hence, Di Maria wouldn't be wasted as, theoretically, a 'wing back'. This means that the left channel for Everton will be decisive. Mirallas is quick and works hard and if Everton play the ball quickly, he should be facing McNair or a right centre back on the left wing or left inside channel. Baines will also be free more often than not, so his offensive contribution is important. Utd, will have to use the left channel and if playing quickly or artfully, can create situations where McCarthy will be dragged into right back positions and gaps opening up in the left midfield areas. If good ball distributors like Mata drift left, there could be space. If Barry tries to shut down Mata, there will be gaps behind Barry. If Barry keeps position, Mata should be free to distribute the ball without pressure. Everton's midfield 4 would have to shuffle across very efficiently, which would open up space for Rafael on the right.
