Adrian Clarke looks at key tactical points ahead of Matchweek 28.
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As Wolverhampton Wanderers prepare for a big match at Tottenham Hotspur in the fight for UEFA Champions League qualification, Nuno Espirito Santo has a big tactical decision to make.
Which formation should the head coach go with in north London?
Last weekend Nuno successfully switched back from a 3-4-2-1 formation to a 3-5-2 system, pushing the in-form Diogo Jota into a central striker’s role alongside Raul Jimenez.
Both front men played superbly, and scored, in a resounding 3-0 success at home against Norwich City.
Jota's two goals v Norwich
That system also inspired this season’s fabulous 2-0 win at Manchester City.
However, it forces Nuno to leave out his lightning-quick winger Adama Traore, who was introduced last weekend only in the 72nd minute.
So, does Nuno stick with his strike partnership, or revert to 3-4-2-1?
Which Wolves formation works best?
| 2019/20 | 3-4-2-1 | 3-5-2 | 3-4-1-2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matches | 16 | 10 | 1 |
| Won | 7 | 2 | 0 |
| Drawn | 7 | 5 | 0 |
| Lost | 2 | 3 | 1 |
| Goal difference | +7 | 0 | -1 |
| Ave. pts | 1.8 | 1.1 | 0 |
Over the course of the campaign Wolves have been better with two attacking midfielders offering support to Jimenez as a lone striker.
Jota’s previous three goals were all scored in that set-up, and the Portuguese is very comfortable floating in from the left to link play with the leading scorer.
Changing a winning strategy is not ideal but for this crucial match it is likely the Jota-Traore-Jimenez trio will be unleashed on Spurs.
With Willy Boly also back in the side providing a solid foundation, it would surprising if Wolves do not go back to the 3-4-2-1 shape that has been most successful for them this season.
Also in this series
Part 1: Van Aanholt key to positive Palace approach
Part 2: Shaw rising to task of flexible Man Utd role
Part 3: Sarr return can reinvigorate Watford attack
Part 4: Boly presence vital to Wolves defence
