4-5-1 formation. Defensive troubles.

[D44N0UT]

Okay so I tried to find a formation that would suit Southampton well and my tactic has been a succes so far but Im not quite satisfied.

I play a 4-5-1 formation with a normal back four, a BWM, BBM and then 2 AP a shadow striker and 1 poacher up front. I ended 4th in the first season and am still contending for the title in december in the 2nd season. However what bothers me is the amount of goals I concede from the flanks.

I already stopped asking my FB's to get further forward, however I still concede many goals from the side. It could be because I have a young and inexperienced squad, but I would like to get some input. I'm happy about the offensive displays of my team however it should improve defensively.

Looking forward to the feedback. For set pieces I have to give credit to Jassar's tactical topic.

 

[Igneos79]

if you want to keep this formation, I suggest using two stopper duties. They should stop incoming crosses and head the ball away

also, with your creative players in the middle of the pitch, perhaps you should exploit the middle? And regarding pressing, you should really play narrower, but have your fullbacks stay wider and your amcs run wider in player instructions...

 

[Sinnott99]

I would set your fullbacks to complete wing backs (seems weird i know but if your fullbacks have good teamwork and work rate then they will have no problem roaming down the wing contributing offensively and defensively.) I would also keep one defender on defend and set one to cover so that the coverer can stop those annoying through balls that always seem to come off perfectly for the other side