Sparky revamp of 4-4-2

SOUTHAMPTON are playing their part in the revival of the 4-4-2 formation.

And Saints boss Mark Hughes (above) reckons the system is one way to counteract the modern trend of teams pressing from the front.

Hughes was part of the Manchester United side that enjoyed huge success under Sir Alex Ferguson, playing with two banks of four behind a strike duo.

However, over time, what was once a set-up used by all has been slowly phased out.

But now Watford are flying high in the Premier League by employing the method.

And Hughes believes a revamped version of the system is the way to go for Southampton.

Hughes, whose side host Brighton tomorrow night, said: “When I was playing, everyone used to play 4-4-2 and it was a little bit more rigid.

“You didn’t get centrebacks getting on the ball and full-backs high.

“It was two banks of four and the two strikers were battering rams, who you used if you wanted to get the ball forward as quickly as possible.

“There is a little bit more thought and process behind what you are looking to do within a 4-4-2 now.

“It still gives you a focal point of two strikers. You can let one come short and hit balls into space to turn people around.

“A lot of teams now want to press you from the front.

“But you can take the press out, just by clipping balls in behind, so there are a lot of elements that help you.

“But with all formations there will be certain tactics that will make it a risk for you, whatever shape you pick.

“No one formation is the right one.

“It is about making sure you’re adaptable and flexible as the game progresses.

“If you have good and intelligent players then I think 4-4-2 is a good formation.”