With Zusi out there are 2 problems. We need a right-sided midfielder and we need someone who can provide quality service to Altidore to continue his scoring streak. Brad Davis is the only man who can provide that kind of service but he plays on the left. He also isn't that good at defending and Panama's most dangerous attacks will come down our right side. With Jones out we are also in need of a D-mid.
Rather than a straight player-for-player swap of Jones and Zusi, I think we will switch to a 4-3-3 formation with a more defensive oriented right side and a more attack minded left side. Altidore will spear the attack, Davis will provide service from the left, and Dempsey will float behind Jozy, with less defensive responsibilities for the trio.
Fabian will slide back slightly into a left-sided D-mid, helping out Beasley on defense but getting forward often, with his slashing diagonal runs causing confusion for Panama's defenders. Bradley will provide cover for the center backs, distribute the attack, and occasionally make surging runs up the center of the pitch. Cameron will slot in as a right-sided D-mid, mostly staying at home and providing extra cover for Brad Evans, and getting assistance from Bradley when he gets in trouble. The back line remains unchanged from last game.
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Lindsay McLennan
almost 13 years
With Zusi out there are 2 problems. We need a right-sided midfielder and we need someone who can provide quality service to Altidore to continue his scoring streak. Brad Davis is the only man who can provide that kind of service but he plays on the left. He also isn't that good at defending and Panama's most dangerous attacks will come down our right side. With Jones out we are also in need of a D-mid. Rather than a straight player-for-player swap of Jones and Zusi, I think we will switch to a 4-3-3 formation with a more defensive oriented right side and a more attack minded left side. Altidore will spear the attack, Davis will provide service from the left, and Dempsey will float behind Jozy, with less defensive responsibilities for the trio. Fabian will slide back slightly into a left-sided D-mid, helping out Beasley on defense but getting forward often, with his slashing diagonal runs causing confusion for Panama's defenders. Bradley will provide cover for the center backs, distribute the attack, and occasionally make surging runs up the center of the pitch. Cameron will slot in as a right-sided D-mid, mostly staying at home and providing extra cover for Brad Evans, and getting assistance from Bradley when he gets in trouble. The back line remains unchanged from last game.