O'Keeffe Fitness

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Liverpool's Attacking Fullbacks

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As the title run in continues we look again at Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool and his use of full backs when in possession.

Liverpool like to attack with both full backs which if ball lost can leave them vulnerable on the counter attack.

This is the risk v reward that football brings, and one that Liverpool have had a successful season to date with.   


Here we analyze the recent win vs Tottenham who lined up in a 532 system. An extra defender was brought in at the back to cope with Liverpool's front 3. 

In this game Salah, Mane and Firmino played close together, this in turn brought the Spurs back line very close as center backs were pinned to their opponents. 

The space therefore from an attacking view came in wide areas where both Andy Robertson and Alexander Arnold flew up and down down the lone causing havoc for Spurs. In the video watch for

-Constant switches of play to expose Spurs lack of width

-Excellent fitness to get up and down the line

-End Product and top class crossing

-Robertson inside to offer support and protection when Arnold attacks

-Decision making of when to pass vs dribble

-Top class defending when required


Tottenham did finally realize that help was needed to prevent the full backs exploiting the side of Spurs. 

They changed to a 541 out of possession by dropping a striker to the midfield. This became a 343 in attack. 

 By then they were 1-0 down lucky it was not more.

Excellent full back play from Robertson and Arnold.

Enjoy

Coach Derek