Are Liverpool switching to a 4-2-3-1 formation?

In recent games, Liverpool have been playing with a different formation and it has been very effective.

Jurgen Klopp has started to drift away from his normal 4-3-3 in favour of a more defensive 4-2-3-1. This formation, also known as the ‘double six’, is characteristic for having two holding midfielders that play right above the defense.

We have been able to see both Fabinho and Gini Wijnaldum play these roles perfectly in the last two games.

Along with Jordan Henderson and James Milner, there are plenty of options in the central defensive midfielder role.

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Above the holding midfielders are two wingers and an attacking midfielder. This level of the formation will consist of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, the Reds’ two high scoring attackers.

The attacking midfielder or number ten role will be played by Adam Lallana, Roberto Firmino or even Xherdan Shaqir. The trio are great attacking threats and are known for being able to link up the play in the final third and really drive the ball in.

Firmino can also occupy the central forward role, but the good thing about the 4-2-3-1 is that it allows Klopp to select Daniel Sturridge and the Brazilian in the same side. Our great Bobby Dazzler is spectacular at playing the deep role up top, and this formation actually benefits him by being able to drop deeper into the midfield when need be.

This formation change might not be an official move from the Liverpool manager as we all know very well his tactics are flexible and fluctuate from game to game. However, he has played with it against both Red Star Belgrade and Cardiff City which makes fans wonder if he will stick to it.

This formation is a mixture of this new defensive approach and the deadly attack Klopp has already managed to put together. It also lets the front four of Shaqiri, Mane, Salah and Firmino play in the same side and that brings a whole different facet to the attack.

Only time will tell if this new move in tactics will help Liverpool finally bring back a piece of silverware to Merseyside.