05 Jul 2013 19:29:28
Apologies if this has been covered before, but several posters were speculating on RM switching Everton to a 3-4-3 formation with Coleman and Baines being the wing-backs in the middle-4. As our current players have done well with a back-4 (in 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1 or 4-5-1 formations), why would he change the successful Coleman-Jagielka-Distin-Baines combination? It'll be interesting to see the formations that are tried during pre-season. Will it be the players having to fit into a particular formation OR will it be the players we have to choose from that determine the preferred formation?

1.) 05 Jul 2013
I agree pal.

I personally think we'll probably change it up to a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation as I think Martinez knows that he can't change an already tried and trusted system and expect instant results.

I think the 3-4-3 that's been touted will be if we go a goal down and are pushing for an equaliser/winner.

2.) 05 Jul 2013
I hope he doesn't tweak it too much Sid, I think he'll go with a 4231 or 433 as the defense has been one of the best in the league for several years now and he would be foolish to tinker too much with the tried and trusted.
If he can retain the defensive solidity and impose his attacking philosophy then we could be playing some really good, attractive stuff and remain very competitive.
Whatever happens it will be interesting to watch it unfold

3.) 05 Jul 2013
05 Jul 2013 21:59:56
good post. I always think a manager should choose a formation based on the players they have at their disposal rather than the other way around. a 4-4-2 would be my preferred formation if we manage to keep fellaini. Imagine:
Howard
Coleman Jagielka/Alcaraz Distan/Alcaraz Baines
Mirallas Barkley/Gibson Fellaini Pienaar
Jelavic Kone/Anichebe

rotation would be available with many positions to keep the squad fresh, however I feel the reason we are being linked with the likes of alcaraz is due to Martinez liking playing 3 centre backs to control possesion in each area of the pitch:

Howard
Jags Alcaraz Distan
Coleman Baines
Fellaini Gibson Barkley/ Pienaar
Mirallas Jelavic/Kone

with the 2nd formation the centre back (alcaraz) will play as a ball playing centre half moving into centre mid to make a centre 4 midfileders along with the wing backs to take control of possession. good format if done correctly and do not lump the ball forwards as was apparent towards the middle of last season under Moyes. Either system could work for us and I would be happy with that team to challenge for european places

4.) 05 Jul 2013
Red or blue we have both ended up with ex swansea managers & I know who I would choose RM all the way, stop moaning & give the man a chance!

5.) 06 Jul 2013
He will be playing with wingbacks that team above is pretty much spot on without baines


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