James Morrison's switch to a 4-4-2 formation was inspired and played a huge part in West Bromwich Albion's survival in the Championship this season. However, club favourite Richard Sneekes has questioned whether the tactical tweak can be maintained over a gruelling 46-game campaign next year.
The Formation Change That Saved the Season
Morrison, who steered the Baggies to safety after being appointed the club's third head coach of a turbulent season, opted for a 4-4-2 formation rarely used in modern football. Albion had previously employed a 4-2-3-1 under Ryan Mason and attempted a back five with wing-backs under Eric Ramsay. The switch proved decisive, with a revitalised Jed Wallace catching the eye on the right flank and Isaac Price improving on the left.
Sneekes Praises the Bold Move
Dutchman Sneekes, 57, who played over 200 games for Albion between 1996 and 2001, praised Morrison's bravery. "The change he made was extremely brave," Sneekes told BBC Radio WM. "It's what we're used to. We all played 4-4-2 30 years ago. There were no tactics. Whereas now it's data-driven, the stats they have before a game is massive. To go 4-4-2, lose the extra man in midfield, intelligent opposition can catch you out. But he did it a way where Jayson Molumby was more on the right but if they would lose the ball they would be very organised. It allowed two up top, to be more direct with crosses into the box and it's so simple. It just shows you how simple football can be."
Challenges and Adaptations
Albion were beaten 2-1 at lowly Oxford on Morrison's first game but earned a comeback point in the next clash away to Sheffield United. It was in South Yorkshire that Morrison decided to change the side's shape, and the Baggies reaped the rewards. However, a blow soon followed as Wallace picked up a calf injury in training. Without sidelined duo Mikey Johnston and Karlan Grant, Morrison used central midfielder Molumby out to the right, and the decision was inspired.
Can It Last for 46 Games?
Sneekes questioned whether the formation can be sustained over a full season. "Will he do the same next year? I think he might tweak it a little bit," he said. "Have they been lucky? No. But can they do it for 46 games next year? Probably not. So they may have to tweak it, and I think the recruitment will be vital, to see how he wants to play going forward."
Recruitment and Full-Back Freedom
Albion are keen on the services of Crystal Palace loan right-back Danny Imray, who flourished behind both Wallace and Molumby under Morrison. With Molumby and Price happy to drift infield, attack-minded full-backs Imray and Callum Styles enjoyed more licence to gallop forward, adding an extra dimension to attack. The summer recruitment will be key as Morrison looks to build on this season's success.
