Based on the provided transcript, here are the five tactical changes for Spurs under Ange Postecoglou:
- Higher Defensive Line:
- Under Postecoglou, Spurs have adopted a higher defensive line. This was evident when comparing average player positions from a previous game against Brentford to the recent one. The defenders, especially the center-backs, are positioned much higher up the pitch. This approach allows the team to be more dominant in the opposition’s half and press higher up the pitch.
- Inverted Fullbacks:
- Unlike the previous system where fullbacks (or wingbacks) were positioned wide and provided width, under Postecoglou, the fullbacks are playing more centrally, almost like central midfielders. This change allows Spurs to have more players in central areas, leading to better ball control and dominance in the center of the park.
- Wingers Positioned Higher and Wider:
- The wingers, specifically Son and Kulusevski, are now positioned higher up the pitch and are playing wider. This is a shift from the previous system where they played more centrally. The new positioning allows them to stretch the opposition defense and provide width in attack.
- Central Midfielders More Involved in Attack:
- Central midfielders, especially Bissouma and Maddison, are now more involved in the attacking third. They are picking up the ball higher up the pitch and are more involved in creating chances. This change allows Spurs to have more players involved in the final third, leading to better attacking opportunities.
- Sweeper Keeper Role:
- The goalkeeper, Vicario, is now playing a ‘sweeper-keeper’ role. He is more involved in defensive actions outside the penalty area and is expected to play out from the back. This approach allows Spurs to maintain possession from the back and build attacks from deep.
These tactical changes reflect Postecoglou’s philosophy of dominating possession, pressing high, and being more proactive in both defense and attack.
