in my opinion the best lineup depends on whether we are playing defensively or looking to attack. hence my suggestions (i am assuming cagara and schrock eventually plays for us, and also assuming technicalities prevent denis wolf from being an azkal)
Best Attacking Formation:
explanation:
- this formation is typically narrow, hence the potent wing threats (cagara, schrock) will come from the fullbacks.
- gier gets the nod over del rosario because i think he's better and more composed
-jonsson gets the nod over c. greatwich due to ability to play wide
- lucena not only holds the midfield but can also initiate the attack as deep-lying playmaker
- if the situation calls for it, jonsson and j. younghusband can play wider than usual
- guirado plays at a slightly more familiar position on the right. he can either cross or be the target of crosses.
- caligdong can play slightly wider or play off the shoulder of the opposing RB for counters.
- phil is a deep-lying forward here. as we've seen, while he's tall, he prefers to receive the ball to feet. he can also act as playmaker/trequartista here.
Best Defensive Formation:
explanation:
- if we're to grind out a 1-0 result, or play for a draw, then this is ideal.
- the wings are to play narrower and deeper (if possible as deep as the CMs) than as depicted in the diagram.
- the fullbacks are primarily tasked to defend. schrock and jonsson are smallish, but we haven't been troubled with height lately, haven't we?
- de jong slots back into his familiar makelele role.
- lucena and greatwich are positioned slightly ahead of de jong, though with different roles. lucena more of a creator, plays killer balls, and a ball-winner, greatwich looks to arrive late in opposition's area and get to end of crosses/ win aerial balls in midfield
- guirado plays as a natural right wing.
- cagara, a natural left-back is placed on the left wing to provide protection from the threat of the opposition's right wing.
- phil has enough pace to play off the counter if needed.
- james younghusband and caligdong are sacrificed for more defensive solidity.
- i was thinking of putting anton at right back, but schrock is simply the better of the two.
Your reactions and comments are much welcomed.