Tactical switch reveals true strength in depth
Mar 21 2006
By Mark Lawrenson, Daily Post
RAFAEL BENITEZ sprang a surprise at St James' Park with his new-look tactical formation - but will have been delighted by the outcome.
Playing with three at the back, five in midfield and two up front was probably not what Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder was expecting to pit his wits against. But Liverpool's players adapted very well and the manager now knows he has another option available to him.
I always fancied Liverpool to get a result at Newcastle - who always look particularly vulnerable in defence - but the fact that Benitez now knows he can move players around and still get a result gives him an added weapon in his armoury.
Different tactics help keep his own players on their toes while keeping opposition managers guessing about which route Liverpool will go down.
An added bonus of the formation was the additional width that it brought to Liverpool's play, with Newcastle stretched on several occasions, and if the five-man midfield helps give Steven Gerrard even more licence to roam forward that can only be good for the team.
On the back of the Fulham result, it shows Liverpool will push a Manchester United side that has found good form of its own all the way in the race for second place.
I wouldn't be surprised to see Liverpool revert to the more accustomed 4-4-2 tonight against Birmingham in the FA Cup quarter finals, but the fact the Benitez can change things around without weakening the team only strengthens his hand. Birmingham have shown plenty of spirit this season, but have lacked a little quality.
Their concern tonight will be where their goals are going to come from and I can see Liverpool going through by a comfortable margin.
Extended contract signing is indication of future successes
IT IS rebutturing to think that Rafael Benitez has heard enough in his conversations with the Liverpool board to persuade him to sign an extended contract at the club.
The manager will have presented his thoughts on a summer transfer shopping list and the fact that he is prepared to extend his contract at this time of the season, bearing in mind the interested from Real Madrid, suggests he has been given some firm butturances.
Liverpool are not known as a club who go back on their word and I am sure talk will have centred around what funds will be made available to the manager allied to the amount he can raise himself in the transfer market by letting certain players go.
It is no surprise Benitez is prepared to commit himself further to the club. He is well liked and is enjoying his time at Anfield and wants to bring more silverware back to the club.
Mark Lawrenson was speaking to RICHARD WILLIAMSON
