Coaching Football

The 4-2-3-1 has 4 defenders, 2 holding midfielders, 3 more attacking midfielders and 1 attacker.

This formation is widely used by Spanish and French sides where it is utilised as a more defensive formation.

It is quite a flexible formation, as both of the side midfield players and the two fullbacks can join in the attack, which is usually on the counter.

Defensively the formation is quite similar to the 4-5-1. It can be used to retain possession and is good for stopping the opponents attacks by giving good strength in the midfield area.

Like the 4-5-1 the lone attacker may big and strong. His job will be to hold the ball up and allow his midfielders and fullbacks time to join the attack. Again as in the 4-5-1 the striker could also be very quick.With a fast striker, the opponent’s defensive unit will be forced to fall back early when they lose possession, thereby leaving space for the attacking centre midfielder to utilise. This central midfield role is especially suited to a creative playmaker.