by Matthew Adams

Created on: September 16, 2009

The soccer formation of 4-4-2 is one of the game's most popular formations. For it is used by a number of teams, and has proved a good formation.

In defence, the formation includes four defenders. This includes two more central defenders, which play more in the penalty box. Besides these defenders, are two wide defenders, sometimes referred to as full-backs. The full-backs are defenders who can sometimes play further forward, and then drop back again to defend their goal.

The midfield also includes four players. Again, like the defence there are two players who play more in the centre of the pitch. These midfield players can either be more attacking or defending. Besides them are two wide midfield players, on the left and right side of the field. These players are wingers, who push forward to help support the forward players with crosses or indeed shoot for goal themselves.

Then, furthest forward only two forwards are played with this formation. The two centre-forwards play more in the centre of the pitch. These forward players will most likely include a good striker, who can score the most goals for the team. Then another second forward who can support the striker, and also score further goals for the team.

Overall, the formation is flexible. For a 4-4-2 formation, can either be attacking or defensive. With an even number of defenders and midfield players included, midfield players can either be pushed forward or pulled back a little. For example, with a diamond midfield an attacking central midfield player is pushed further forward behind the two forwards, while a more defensive midfield player plays back a little closer to the defenders. Equally, a 4-4-2 can easily become a 4-3-3, or alternatively a 3-5-2 by switching one player.

Further advantages of the formation, is that it can offer a lot of attacking options. Even with just two forward players, the midfield can provide good support to them and also score further goals for the team.

Equally, in defence the formation has a good number of players and can be strong. In addition, further support can be given if required by a defensive midfield player.

Many coaches favour the 4-4-2 formation, for its flexibility and other advantages. Great teams have played with the 4-4-2 formation, such as Manchester Utd, and won trophies.

The 4-4-2 is regarded as an English football formation. However, it is also widely used by continental teams as well as English.

So overall, the 4-4-2 formation is certainly a good football formation. It has flexibility, a variety of attacking options and also a good defence. For further details, consider this 4-4-2 diagram.

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