Manchester United’s 0-0 draw against Wolves proved yet another failed attempt at their quest to finish in the Champions League places come May. It is an ambition that is slowly fading with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side now sitting 6 points behind Chelsea with both teams locked in an intriguing battle at Stamford Bridge after the winter break.

It is now three league games without a win for Manchester United, and three consecutive games without scoring which will prove all the more worrying for Solskjaer and his coaching staff. United’s barren run in front of goal has somewhat coincided with Rashford’s long injury lay off.

The loan signing of Odion Ighalo could provide United with the short term solution they so desperately desire, though that remains to be seen considering their repeated lack of quality when creating chances. The stalemate with Wolves was just another in a long catalogue of unconvincing performances, ones which highlight a failure to break down teams who defend deep against them.

It may have been a night to forget for Solskjaer, but it was the performances of new signing Bruno Fernandes which provided a small glimmer of hope for the rest of the season.  Thrown straight into the thick of things with only two days spent in Manchester after his move from Sporting Lisbon. The Portuguese gave a telling reminder of his qualities despite United’s failure to break down a rugged and organised Wolves side. Fernandes had more touches than anyone else (110), made more passes (88), made more final third passes (44) and had the most shots out of any player on the field (5), WhoScored. 

The new signing isn’t the solution to all of United’s lingering issues, but he is however a huge step in the right direction for Solskjaer as he aims to rebuild an ailing squad. Lining up in the central attacking role in Solskjaer’s customary 4-2-3-1 shape behind Anthony Martial, with Dan James and Juan Mata either side of him, Fernandes constantly looked for pockets of space in between the lines. Wolves’ well organised 3-4-3 shape halted his influence in those areas. Fernandes’ willingness to attempt the audacious shot or thread a telling pass was clear for all to see. It is a trait that United have sorely missed throughout the season with Paul Pogba’s recurring injury problems.

The Wolves game was a timely reminder of the problems Paul Pogba has faced ever since his return from Juventus. On so many instances, Pogba hasn’t had the support of others around to him effectively have the influence we know he can have. Fernandes suffered from the same misgivings on his debut. The Portuguese midfielder constantly had to drop deep to instigate play alongside Fred simply because Andreas Pereira lacked the necessary quality to do so. What also did not help Fernandes’ cause was Daniel James’ strange positional sense, rather than holding his position wide left in order to trouble Wolves wing-back Matt Doherty, the Welsh winger constantly dropped inside as a second striker or inside forward with so much of United’s play in front of the Wolves back-line rather than in behind.

Bruno Fernandes constantly had to usher his teammates into correct positions and orchestrate proceedings without any luck, but it was in fact huge sign of his leadership qualities. A trait he has picked up through his meteoric rise in Lisbon.  In order for Fernandes to be an instant hit at Old Trafford, he needs the necessary quality around him. He connected well Juan Mata on several occasions and even developed a steady understanding with Fred who himself is undergoing a renaissance in midfield.

Fernandes also tried to link with Anthony Martial, though the Frenchman’s inconsistent form and lack of energy could not provide United with the injection and inventiveness they needed. The inaugural Premier League winter break could not come at a better time for Solskjaer and his players. With a trip to Marbella on the horizon, it will provide Fernandes the ample time needed to develop an understanding of what Solskjaer requires and a much better understanding of his teammates. Hopefully United will have Paul Pogba to call upon when they meet Chelsea on the 17th of February.

Already fans are awaiting the superstars return and a potential devastating partnership with Bruno Fernandes.

Could United’s lineup look like this when Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba return from their injuries?

Bruno Fernandes showed the Old Trafford faithful the kind of qualities he could offer the club in their draw against Wolves, but its become evidently clear that in order for the Portuguese international to truly flourish at the Theatre of Dreams, he requires players at a similar level – if not better – for his amazing creative abilities to thrive. Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba’s return cannot come any sooner.

Sheffield United broke their transfer record, completing the signing of Norwegian international midfielder Sander Berge for a fee of around £22million from Belgian outfit Genk.

The 21-year old who has already won 20 caps at international level has penned a 4-year deal until the summer of 2024 at Bramall Lane.

In what has been a sensational return to the Premier League for Chris Wilder and his team this campaign, their season may have just taken another turn for the better with the signing of one of Europe’s most coveted young midfielders in Sander Berge.

The midfielder was signed by Genk from Norwegian side Valerenga in 2015 and an influential figure in Genk’s quest of the Belgian league title last season.

Sheffield United manager was delighted a deal with the player could be completed. Wilder said:

“When we sat down with Sander it was clear that he was excited about coming here and that was great to see.

I think this signing just shows for us how far we have come in a short space of time, that we are now attracting the likes of Sander to the football club. It’s a brilliant signing for us.”

The signing of Sander Berge is indeed a reflection of how far Sheffield United have come in such a short space of time. This is a player that has been scouted by a whole host of top European clubs such as Premier League leaders Liverpool. A player who had his heart set on moving to a side in the Champions League, it is a true testament to Sheffield United’s recruitment drive that they have been able to snap up a talent who should really be gracing Europe’s top competition.

So what would Berge offer Sheffield United? Where would he fit? 

Sander Berge is a player built for the big occasion, literally.

The Norwegian is a man mountain. 21 years of age, standing at 6 ft, 3 inches.

Well known in the gaming world of Football manager, the Genk midfielder is equally impressive in real life too and is said to be one of the brightest young midfield prospects in European football. He’s stood out in the Champions League this season – including the two group fixtures against Liverpool.

When it comes to natural abilities, Sander Berge holds all the ingredients necessary to be a big hit in English top-flight.

Efficient in the press, powerful in his tackling and holds the relative experience and character needed to become an instant success in the Premier League. All at the age of just 21.

What’s also good about Berge is his influence on those around him. When he plays, Genk are a much better and dominant force and that’s the kind of influence he will have on Chris Wilder’s side. We’re already accustomed to Sheffield United’s organisation, unity, and energy in the midfield and the acquisition of the Norwegian can only add to those traits. Oliver Norwood, John Fleck and John Lundstram have been 3 of the league’s most impressive performers throughout the campaign in midfield. Their relentless running, energy and tenacity have provided the whole team with the incentive to dominate teams both defensively and in attack, its no surprise that Sheffield United hold one of the league best defences.

New signing Berge would fit seamlessly into Chris Wilder’s midfield. He’s more than capable of playing anywhere across their midfield three, but would probably provide more impact at the base of the midfield. Aerially dominant, a workhorse, a willing runner and a player who holds a fantastic understanding tactically. Characteristics which will instantly endear him to the Bramall Lane faithful.

For a player as tall as he is, Berge also holds a unique skill set in getting by his marker. His close ball control, strength and flexibility means he has no problems beating an opponent’s press or evading tight spaces.

Berge is a great signing for Sheffield United. His character and personality stands out too, a future leader potentially for both club and country. He’s clever in the way he reads the game. Quick in his decision making. While John Fleck and John Lundstram are tasked with roaming up the pitch, and performing duties to support the attack in the half-space, Berge could be the perfect sweeper. His towering presence means players will have to try extra hard getting past him. Very quick on his feet, able to dominate and sweep up play across the front of the back five.

Wilder’s portrait is of a typical English manager, very traditional in his approach but he’s one of the most modern around, always looking for new methods and playing a hungry style of football. That will suit Sander Berge to the ground.

Sheffield United have pulled off an absolute steel. Pun intended.

It was beautiful passage of play as Arsenal carved open Bournemouth’s midfield and back-line for their opening goal in a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth to secure their place in the 5th round of the FA Cup.

Bukayo Saka’s third goal for the club in what was his first taste of the FA Cup was a true measurement of the kind of progress Arsenal are embarking on under Mikel Arteta since his appointment last month. The pace and precision in which Arsenal took their opportunity – involving three of their young stars – was a sign that the future of Arsenal football club is in good hands.

A crisp and intricate 22-pass move finished with Joe Willock effortlessly spinning away from his marker following a Nicolas Pepe pass, he drove towards the Bournemouth back-line before playing in Martinelli on the left, the Brazillian then swiftly picked out Saka’s run on the outside, who took one touch and belted one in off the underside of the bar. It was a goal of pitch perfect quality, highlighting the style Mikel Arteta has already implemented at the Emirates.

Without the experience heads of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette, and Mesut Ozil, Arsenal’s youngsters more than held their own as they totally dominated Eddie Howe’s side putting the game beyond their reach. Arsenal’s second was of reverent quality too. Joe Willock picked out Saka on the left with a lovely pass, the winger come left-back then drove at Adam Smith before expertly picking out Eddie Nketiah to notch his first goal for Arsenal since May.

At the heart of Arsenal’s play was 20-year-old Joe Willock who proved to Mikel Arteta that he has what it takes to potentially dethrone Mesut Ozil of the No.10 spot. An energetic performance showcasing his abilities to disrupt defences with his swift movement and deft pieces of skill on the ball.

Against Bournemouth, Willock proved he certainly has what it takes to become a key figure for Arsenal. Though, the young midfielder must learn to keep a level of consistency in his performances. Under the tutelage and fresh impetus of Arteta, Willock will have no problems improving his game.

Another young talent truly enjoying a remarkable rise in a position he is unaccustomed to is Bukayo Saka. Arsenal have suffered at left-back with Saed Kolasinac and Kieran Tierney occupying the treatment table, but Saka has never shied away from his responsibilities in the role. Sure, the player does have a lot to learn. His lack of positional play and reading of the game has been exploited on occasions, but in attack his contributions have been stark. A goal and an assist against Bournemouth once again is a sign of the remarkable progress he is embarking on under Mikel Arteta. Contributing to 10 goals across all competitions so far this season for Arsenal (3 goals, 7 assists).

The left-back role more than likely won’t be his permanent position in future but it is one that will surely enhance his development and deepen his understanding of the game.

What about Gabriel Martinelli? A name on every Arsenal fans lips currently A player with a fantastic attitude to improve. His non-stop running, tenaciousness, willingness to impress, speed and confidence in front of goal is already propelling him to become a key figure in Arteta’s side even at the tender of 18. 10 goals in a remarkable breakout campaign will surely give Mikel Arteta food for though as the former Manchester City coach builds a side worthy of challenging his former employers. The Brazilian youngster has taken in the rigours of the Premier League like a duck to water, and its no surprise considering his admirable levels of professionalism and character. Martinelli is a player well on his way to stardom.

Arteta already holds a solid base to build his side around. Joe Willock, Eddie Nketiah, a player with massive potential but desperate to prove he holds the abilities to become Arsenal’s regular no.9 after his unsuccessful loan spell with Leeds United, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and even Mateo Guendouzi are all currently showcasing qualities that will make them key figures in the future of Arsenal football club. While this season may be viewed as a write off by the Arsenal faithful considering the gap between themselves and Chelsea in the Champions League places, it is a chance for Arteta to assess and mould his side at least until the summer where he will be given the opportunity and resources to fully rebuild a deflated squad. The young-fledgling talents at his disposal however, are somewhat easing the pressure off the Spaniard.

The future certainly looks bright at the Emirates.

Alexandre Lacazette is a player known for the occasional strop during games and when being substituted. During the 1-1 draw against Sheffield United, he threw yet another act of frustration after being hauled off for academy product Eddie Nketiah 15 minutes from the end. It was an act which ran much deeper.

The Frenchman is currently under going pretty bad spell in front of goal. It is now eight league games without since scoring against Brighton at the start of December. As a result, his future at the Emirates is now being called into question.

With Eddie Nketiah back from his unsuccessful loan spell at Leeds, hoping to prove a point under Mikel Arteta and Gabriel Martinelli continuing to impress in his first season in the English top-flight, Lacazette’s position as Arsenal’s main frontman is under serious threat.

It may have been an unfruitful season for the club last campaign, but for Lacazette on a personal level, it was an unforgettable one. Scoring 19 goals and assisting 13 in all competitions, he was awarded Arsenal’s player of the season last year, becoming the sides chief creative force and arguably their most influential attacker at no.9. The striker had been as affected as anyone else by the collective decline that ultimately cost Unai Emery his job.

His contribution towards Arsenal’s gradual resurgence under Arteta can’t be overlooked despite his poor run in front of goal. His sumptuous assist for Aubameyang in their 1-1 draw away to Crystal Palace was a further indication as to how vital he is to Arsenal’s attacking play.

The way in which he holds off his marker bringing others into play, his strength, tenacity and energy when pressing from the front and his never-say die attitude are characteristics that have endeared himself to the Arsenal faithful. Though, when in the form he is currently in, snatching at chances and failing to finish off intricate passing moves, you can almost forgive the fans for turning against him. There is always gonna be pressure leading the line for Arsenal, especially when you cost the best part of £50million. Now, there will be more pressure without Aubameyang.

There is the argument that in order for Lacazette to improve his form, he must focus less on trying to accommodate others, overworking himself dribbling, tackling and putting himself about lessening his influence in front of goal. He must become more ruthless and selfish in search of a goal. Lacazette has certainly evolved in recent seasons, no longer is he an out-an-out striker latching onto the end of passes, or playing on the shoulder of the last defender, he is now taking on the role of a withdrawn forward who is actively involved in attacking build-up rather than getting into the right positions to finish off attacking moves. Whether its a good or a bad thing, it’s certainly affecting his abilities to score regularly.

More than anything, it is a lack of confidence and sharpness that has defined his difficulties this season. Though, he is not far away from hitting top form. No striker in the world let alone Europe is immune from a barren spell. It is noticeable that, in terms of his statistical output, he has barely dipped from last year. Lacazette is creating more chances for his teammates per game, and providing more key passes in comparison to last season [WhoScored].

Perhaps it is unfair to judge him solely on his goal scoring. It’s become clear that there is more to him than meets the eye. His all round game and defensive work from the front is earning as many plaudits as his goalscoring output. While Aubameyang is viewed as the predator, Lacazette offers more in his game and an ability to bring the best out of the players around him. Now, rather than Lacazette becoming the sole-creator, his teammates can do more to help him to form. He needs the likes of Pepe, Martinelli, Ozil, Reiss Nelson to improve the consistency in their chance creation. It’s not a worry when you’re squandering chances, it is a worry however, if a no.9 isn’t on the end of them.

Lacazette maybe lacking his predatory instincts in front of goal right now, but he is offering so much more. He holds the character, drive and personality to reignite his goal scoring prowess. Patience – a rare commodity in modern day football – is certainly required.

When he arrived at Manchester United from Southampton as a £30million 18-year-old England international in 2014, Luke Shaw was meant to be the Red Devils’ permanent left-back for the next 10 years. Fast forward a little over 5 years, and his potential of becoming United’s future is under serious threat. There’s a new kid on the block now wowing the Old Trafford faithful, a product of Manchester United’s illustrious academy.

Although, recent seasons as a Manchester United supporter hasn’t reaped its benefits with success, the club has still produced moments worthy of celebration. One major silver lining in an otherwise fruitless few seasons since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, is the emergence of an exciting group of academy prospects making their name in the first team. The likes of Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood, Axel Tuanzebe, to the up and coming figures of Angel Gomes, Dylan Levitt and James Garner.

Though, one kid already making a name for himself and threatening to make Luke Shaw a thing of the past at Old Trafford is 19-year-old Brandon Williams.

Thrust into the first-team because of injuries to Ashley Young, Marcos Rojo and Luke Shaw, Williams has rapidly made the position his own. He’s never once looked fazed by the pressure of filling in.

With injuries to a lack of depth in the squad, Solskjaer has had to turn to his academy and it is a risk that is reaping its rewards. Against Brighton, Williams was in fact handed the man-of-the-match award because of his tidy and assured performance in a game where United were desperate for the three points. His positional awareness, bravery and maturity stood out in a relatively comfortable 3-1 victory.

Where United have often been unbalanced in the back line deploying make shift options such as Ashley Young and Marcos Rojo, it’s been refreshing to see a natural left-back in the team. A position that has regularly been a problem for United, now currently looks to be solved. 14 appearances already for Williams, and United have only lost one of those.

The above stat tells its own story about the impact Brandon Williams is having on the whole team. He has restored a defensive resilience in United’s back-line, something that has been missing for much of the season, and never even expected after United shelled out nearly £80million on Harry Maguire. Now United have two full-backs on either flank with the full capabilities of courageously becoming influential both in attack and defence.

Sure, Luke Shaw’s had his fair share of injuries problems, though when he is fit, he’s often looked susceptible in defence and rarely offers an adequate support for Marcus Rashford on the left. Brandon Williams has filled in that role effortlessly. One of the reasons United lack much creativity in the final third is due to Luke Shaw or Ashley Young regularly failing to provide an outlet for Rashford when he drifts in field. Because of that lack of support, it is easy for defenders to sniff out Rashford’s attempts on the left because there isn’t an alternative beside him to engage and for the forward to use as a decoy.

Brandon William has thankfully provided Solskjaer with a solution however, his marauding, non-stop runs off the ball down the left, driving with the ball from deep benefits United’s play. Now opposite full-backs are drawn away from the ball in an attempt to engage Williams’ movement which means Rashford or Anthony Martial have more space to exploit in the final third. It was his relentless energy and determination to get onto Rashford’s over-hit pass that gifted United the penalty in their 4-0 rout against Norwich at Old Trafford.

Such a trait is clearly being valued by Solskjaer and the whole squad, and its why Brandon Williams is being earmarked as United’s best left-back since Patrice Evra. The 19-year-old’s overally play has rejuvenated a team that’s long been in desperate need of some injection of energy, bravery and drive down the left-flank.

It’s performances like that of Brighton, Norwich, Wolves twice in the recent FA Cup ties, and Sheffield United back in November, amongst a long list of examples from Brandon Williams that is providing United fans with some real excitement in a season filled with many ups and downs. Long may it continue, the signs of Williams’ early development are very encouraging. This is a player worthy of some celebration, how the United faithful have needed those over the years.

The January transfer window is hotting up. While it may be difficult for the top clubs around Europe to identify and complete big money moves, it is certainly a month used to increase squad depth and scout promising young talents. One player who fits the latter perfectly, with his name rapidly popping up on the rumour mill is 22-year-old Brazillian midfielder Bruno Guimarães.

Currently plying his trade in the Brazillian top-flight for Athletico Paranaense, he may just be swapping the elegant warmth of South America for the winter chill of London. The player has regularly been linked with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, as well as Atletico Madrid.

Who is Bruno Guimarães? 

Born and raised in the neighbourhood of of São Cristóvão, Rio de Janiero. Bruno Guimarães made his professional debut at Brazilian outfit Audax, in April 2015, aged just 17. Playing the last three minutes in a 2-1 Campeonato Paulista away win against Bragantino.

He was then promoted to first-team 2 years later after impressing in the Copa Sao Paulo de Futbol Junior competition. In May that year, he was then snapped up by his current club Athletico Paranaense on loan until April 2018, initially assigned to the under-23 squad. Guimarães then made his debut in the Brazilian top-flight in the summer of 2017, coming on as a second-half substitute in a 1-0 defeat to Athletico Goianiense.

It was in March 2018, that he was signed permanently signing a contract keeping him at the club until 2021. He scored his first goal for the club that same month, and has never looked back, becoming a regular in the side under Tiago Nunes, renewing his contract until to 2023 in February 2019.

He’s made nearly 100 appearances for the club, scoring 7 goals and laying on 5 assists.

Style of play?

Bruno Guimarães can play in a number of positions in the midfield. As a deep-lying number six, or a marauding and energetic number eight. Though, he is regularly deployed as a defensive midfielder for his club, sitting in the base of midfield, breaking up play, sweeping up counter-attacks, and becoming an orchestrator from deep.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBji7P6Cnz4

 

In the above video, he regularly displays his consummate abilities to distribute the ball, with strong vertical passes and switches of play. The Audax youth product has a fantastic positional awareness and understanding, knowing when to hold his position and when to drift out wide if his defensive duties demands such. It’s his quickness off the ball and with it that allows his side to become so dominant in the middle.

What’s also impressive about Guimarães is his telepathic understanding with his forwards, he knows when to pick them out with his long raking passes over the defence, and the trajectory at which he hits the pass is what makes him so unique. As is with the cause with so many Brazilian midfielders, he has excellent dribbling qualities and ball control which allows him to draw in multiple defenders in which he can easily beat them and thread eye of the needle passes. He performs this trait with such remarkable regularity.

Guimarães’s vision and passing is what sets him apart from the rest. Despite making timely runs into the box, he isn’t blessed with an eye for goal. He doesn’t posses a great shot or heading abilities which limits his influence in the final third. But it’s in the middle third, where his impact truly comes to the fore. He’s an outstanding ball-winner and excellent when breaking the lines of play with simple pass or a mazy run. This is a player with an impressive range of skill-sets.

How would he fit in at Arsenal?

Fast transitional play is vitally important in European football, especially in the Premier League, and Guimarães holds the necessary qualities to perform such a role. It may take him a while to fully get familiar with the rigours of the Premier League, but there is no doubt that the player harnesses the traits and qualities that Arteta requires.

Arsenal in recent years have often lacked a powerful presence in midfield, someone who can make a cynical foul when necessary, or one who can break up play with relative ease. It’s clear Arteta needs an authoritative figure in the middle.

Lucas Torreira and Xhaka have enjoyed a renaissance under Arteta, but their immediate future at the Emirates is unclear. Alternative options may be needed. The Brazilian under-23 player certainly holds the defensive nous to make it in a top European League. He can truly command a midfield from the holding role.

The Brazilian may however struggle with the increased speed of the Premier League. Especially with his somewhat languid style of play on the ball. A move to Spain might be more ideal, at least initially, than making the jump to England.

However, Arsenal wouldn’t be scouting the player extensively if they didn’t believe he had the qualities to become a success in the Premier League. He is a player that is obviously liked by Mikel Arteta and exposure to Premier League football could provide him with the opportunity to finally make his name for the Brazilian national side too.

This is a player with a huge future. Arsenal would do well to get a taste of his qualities.

 

Bournemouth’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Watford means they now sit second from bottom in the Premier League table, and have incurred 4 points from a possible 30 since their last victory over Manchester United in September, making this their worst ever run under Eddie Howe in the top flight.

It’s not the only stat causing panic for the coaching staff, they have also scored the joint lowest league goals at this stage of the season, level with Watford and Crystal Palace. It’s been a remarkable downward slide for the club. At this stage last season, they sat comfortably in 12th place on 30 points. This season, they are 10 points worse off.

While it may be plausible to blame Bournemouth’s current form on their terrible run of injuries to 10 of their first team stars such as Josh King, David Brooks, and Junior Stanislas, it seems as though Eddie Howe isn’t making the best use of the players currently available to him.

Throughout Bournemouth’s impressive rise in the Barclays Premier League, Eddie Howe has always been heavily reliant on pacey wingers and their ability to work so effectively around Callum Wilson, like the Norwegian Josh King who is currently one of Howe’s most consistent performers. Injuries to such players have exposed Bournemouth’s frailties in attack, and they are no longer the exciting team they once where.

Against Watford, Bournemouth lined up in their customary 4-4-2 setup.

It is a formation that has become the hallmark of much of Bournemouth’s quick transitional play especially through their wingers on either flank and full-backs. Also their fluid movement in an around the final third has often caused defences many problems but injuries to key players certainly hasn’t helped their cause, especially for the players who aren’t on the treatment table.

Ryan Fraser has lost his aura and isn’t the fearsome little lightning winger he’s always shown. Harry Wilson – despite showing glimpses of his quality – has lacked the consistency that made him so vital under Frank Lampard at Derby in the Championship last season.

But there is certainly a case to argue that Howe’s 4-4-2 system isn’t bringing out their best. Fraser and Wilson aren’t flying wingers like King and Stanislas, they are more creative wingers becoming most influential when drifting inside, in the half-space or in between the opposition’s defence and midfield. It’s within those positions that Fraser and Wilson work most of their magic. Last season, Fraser became one of the league’s top creators, involved in 21 of Bournemouth’s 56 Premier League goals (7 goals, 14 assists). Harry Wilson for Derby, scored 16 goals, and assisted 4.

One which Eddie Howe could take on board if he is to arrest Bournemouth’s dramatic slide. Rather than relying on his trusted 4-4-2 in which the midfielders must be tireless and efficient workhorses, he could line up in a 4-3-3 or a 4-1-4-1 shape, sacrificing one of his strikers for more creativity around the lone frontman and more importantly, providing security in a midfield that currently lacks the discipline to sit and sweep up the opponents counter attacking moves. Bournemouth are so easy to play through due to a lack of security in front of the back four. Howe’s team are known for their knack of conceding goals, but always held the necessary quality in attack to bail themselves out of trouble with their relentless energy and swift attacking moves. It just hasn’t been the case this season. Instead of conceding and scoring more goals as regularly is the case with Howe’s side, they are now scoring less and conceding more.

Jefferson Lerma was brought in for security in front of their defence, but he’s been found wanting in Howe’s 4-4-2 setup. A shift to a possible 4-3-3 could bring the best out of the Colombian. Not only is he good in breaking up play, he also has a good range of passing. Though, he needs bodies alongside him in midfield to carry out his duties effectively.

The 4-3-3 is a formation that provides control in possession and security without it.

For the system to work, Bournemouth’s full-backs must become highly proficient in attack as well as defending . Diego Rico and Adam Smith are both naturally flying full-backs. Their constant running in support of the attack will allow Fraser and Wilson the license to drift inside and support Callum Wilson centrally. The England international is currently embarking on a disastrous run of 14 games without a goal, a run which stretches back to September. The fluidity, speed, and creativity of both wingers could provide Callum Wilson a solution to his dry spell in front of goal.

What’s also helpful in this formation is that one of the two midfielders in front of Lerma could act as an effective box-to-box player, a midfield runner who can have an influence in attack as well as in defence, someone like Lewis Cook who is an elegant all-round performer when given the opportunity. Brilliant in possession, has an eye for a cute pass, and a predator in the tackle. The 4-3-3 formation could be perfect for players like Lewis Cook, who can also perform a role in front of the defence too. Phillip Billing’s towering presence could be a mouthwatering prospect for Eddie Howe in this system also. If Cook is given the licence to roam then Billing could drop back with Lerma and help sweep up counter attacks providing adequate cover for the attacking full-backs.

Against Watford, Bournemouth only had the one shot on target, and that was down to a lack of quality in attack and support from the midfield. At the other end, they were left exposed defensively by Watford’s quick and bullish attackers.. It’s time Eddie Howe becomes flexible and alters his game plan, one that suits and complements the players available to him. Bournemouth are in desperate need of some inspiration, injection and confidence, a shift in formation to a flexible 4-3-3 could provide just that.