There was a clear tactical shift for Wolves in the final 10 minutes against Liverpool, and it could be something we see more of.
A formation with five defenders has become synonymous with the Old Gold recently, but issues outside of Rob Edwards’ control could force him to change the system.
It was not the first time that Edwards has taken off a defender for a forward player, but against the Reds, it seemed to be a forced change.
Now, that switch could end up being the backbone of his preparation to take on Manchester United on Tuesday.
Wolves switched to a back four in the final 10 minutes vs Liverpool
Since arriving at Molineux, Rob Edwards has exclusively used a back five, or back three, whatever way you want to portray it.
However, against Liverpool, in the final 10 minutes, Wolves seemed to switch to a variation of a 4-4-2, or a 4-2-2-2.
The back four consisted of Ladislav Krejci and Santiago Bueno at the base, with Jackson Tchatchoua and David Moller Wolfe holding the width.
Of course, Andre and Joao Gomes covered the midfield, while Mateus Mane and Jhon Arias seemed to float in the spaces ahead of them.
Jorgen Strand Larsen and Tolu Arokodare partnered with each other up top, with the Nigerian impressing throughout the 90 minutes.
Should Rob Edwards listen to Arne Slot and play two up?🤔
If not… what should he do?
As previously stated, it was not the first time this season a change of formation by Edwards has been seen, but the difference this time is that he may be forced to keep it on Tuesday.
- READ MORE: Wolves legends explain where Mateus Mane must improve despite impressive showing against Liverpool
Yerson Mosquera’s potential injury could force Rob Edwards’ hand
The extent of Yerson Mosquera’s injury is still unknown, but the Colombian did come off after receiving medical treatment in the 79th minute.
Hopefully, the injury was nothing more than a cramp, but with the game against Manchester United just two days after the loss at Anfield, even a minor knock could rule him out.
That would land Rob Edwards in a terrible situation defensively. Toti Gomes and Emmanuel Agbadou are both unavailable.
The Ivorian is at AFCON, and Toti is set to be out for quite a few weeks after picking up a hamstring injury.
Additionally, Ladislav Krejci may not be an option in central defence. Andre’s suspension for Man United means Wolves are also light in the middle of the pitch, leaving only Joao Gomes and the Czech as senior first-team options.
Finish the sentence: Rob Edwards should play ______ in midfield alongside Joao Gomes vs Man United.
His options are slim without Andre.
With all that said, those final ten minutes against the reigning Premier League champions could offer an insight into how Wolves line up against the Red Devils on Tuesday.
The limited options may force the Old Gold to try a new formation from the start.
The change of pace could catch Manchester United by surprise, and with both Jorgen Strand Larsen and Tolu Arokodare up top, they might find joy.
Either way, Mateus Mane is certainly one forward who must start again.
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