22 Jul 2020 12:06:07
Im hearing Olivier Giroud, Reece James, Mason Mount, Mateo Kovačić and Jorginho will retain their place tonight. Kepa and Christian Pulisic return to the starting XI

This is my guess for the set up today vs Liverpool.

Kepa

James Rudiger Zouma Azpi

Kovacic Jorginho Mount

Pulisic Giroud Willian

Otherwise if we play 3 at the back then Willian out for Alonso. I suspect we will start 433.

1.) 22 Jul 2020
22 Jul 2020 13:08:40
I hope we don't it would be a bit stupid after playing so well against utd.

2.) 22 Jul 2020
22 Jul 2020 14:31:32
I remember at Spurs we won with 352, in that game our wingbacks managed to push Spurs back but JM's negative tactics suited us as they played on the counter attack which helped us a lot and it ensured we were 352 through majority of the game keeping possession.

However the very next game we struggled and lost to Bournemouth with the same formation. Its not a formation that works always for Lampard and it is not set in stone for us either.

Against Man Utd 352 worked a treat as they had set up to play us on the counter attack and therefore our wingbacks managed to keep them very deep which ensured we were 352 throughout majority of the game again.

However, against Liverpool it will be very dangerous to play 352 in my opinion because their attack will force it from a 352 to literally a 532 which would mean a very busy day for the boys in defense. We are not the best team in terms of counter attacks and for that to work we would need Abraham and I can't see him start personally. I also can't see how Alonso and Reece James push Liverpool back who I know will come to attack us.

We previously beat Liverpool playing 4231, so maybe we will see more of the same. Or perhaps play 433 which worked a treat in beating Man City recently.

What are your thoughts Ed1?

{Ed001's Note - I would never suggest playing a back three up against a front 3 as it leaves no cover. A back four is always a better option, imo. Especially against a front 3 with the quality of Mane and Salah, who can beat a man so easily. A 4-2-3-1 allows one of the midfield to drop in when a full-back advances, so allows you to keep the width in attacking areas as well, without leaving a big hole in front of the defence.}

3.) 22 Jul 2020
22 Jul 2020 15:47:50
Thats what I'm thinking, a 4231 formation sets up nicely. Pivots being Kovacic and Jorginho.

I would be shocked if we dared to play 352 against Liverpool.

4.) 22 Jul 2020
22 Jul 2020 19:27:04
Its 352 Ed1. I feel nervous about this even more now.