Boss varying tactics is the Ki to success
KI Sung-yueng expects Rafa Benitez to continue tinkering with Newcastle United’s formation throughout the rest of the Premier League campaign.
In recent weeks Benitez has made a number of tactical alterations between matches including switching between deploying a flat back four and a three-man defence with wingbacks as well as playing a loan forward on occasion, but at other times two strikers up top.
It has seen a marked change from last season when, for the most part, Benitez stuck with his favoured 4-2-3-1 formation particularly during the second half of the campaign when it worked so effectively for United.
This term the Spaniard feels he now has the personnel to change system depending on what formation he feels will give United the best opportunity to defeat opponents in any given week.
The Magpies triumphed against Burnley and Huddersfield Town away from home while deploying a three-man defence, while they were victorious against Watford and Bournemouth at St James’ Park last month with a flat back four.
Kenedy and Javier Manquillo operated as wingbacks at Huddersfield last weekend, while Matt Ritchie and DeAndre Yedlin have also adopted such roles on occasion.
In Ki’s opinion, Newcastle’s ability to mould their tactics to exploit opposition weaknesses and nullify their strengths has been a key part in their recent revival and he expects Benitez to continue making changes from game to game.
The 29-year-old midfielder (pictured) said: “The boss has used different formations this year.
“I think that last season he did not change tactics too much but this season he has played three at the back, 5-4-1, 3-5-2, because we have good defenders so we can manage ourselves differently.
“We were a little disappointed against Wolverhampton earlier this month but I think at Huddersfield we gained what we deserved.
“In the future, maybe we can play four at the back, or five at the back.
“Tactically, the boss has a lot of experience as a manager, so we learn a lot of things from him.”