Why 4-3-3 is the right formation for Oxford United

In the past couple of weeks, it seems as if many Oxford United fans have risen from their Football Manager 2011 desk with an anguished look upon their face. The real Oxford United had – prior to a 1-0 victory in Dagenham - lost a little momentum. Chris Wilder was getting everything wrong and by the modern means of the keyboard warrior, was he going to know about it.

Aside from his signings being useless, half of the team being ushered towards the bench by fans demanding widespread changes and his enigmatic winger being deserving of a chance to show the fans why he was being sent out on loan, the main issue in the mind of the average Oxford United fan was Wilder's formation.

With three points safely collected after an encouraging away performance, the evidence is in place to support Wilder's persistence with the 4-3-3 formation. By looking at the strengths and weaknesses of 4-3-3, 4-4-2 and another modern shape, the 4-2-3-1, we can see what Wilder's thinking is, before coming to the conclusion that he was probably correct all along.

Let's start with what we have come to recognise as Oxford United's formation in recent seasons...

4-3-3

This is the team that started the fixture at Dagenham in the familiar 4-3-3 formation, with Paul McLaren shielding the back four. Why does Wilder like this formation? Why is it difficult to play against?

Strengths

One of the key strengths in the 4-3-3 formation is the central midfield three. An initial strength, is that this formation is never short of numbers in the midfield. If the opponent plays a 4-4-2 formation, United have a midfield three to cope with the opposition's two central midfielders. If the opponent plays with a 4-5-1 or a 3-5-2, Oxford's midfield can match up on a man to man basis. If the players in the system organise themselves efficiently, the midfield should not be overrun. Additionally, away from home, a midfield three is far more efficient at limiting space than a two. When trying to make the midfield compact, this formation is highly effective.

With Paul McLaren sitting in front of the back four, Wilder also has an effective shield to protect his defence. McLaren's defensive role is to prevent balls into the feet of opposition strikers, whilst also providing cover for the back four on when the opposition counter-attack, as is common when United attack. If McLaren's presence can cause the ball to go wide, where United's full-backs can slow the play, he has done his job.

When on the ball, McLaren is a steadying influence, offering a backward option to his teammates. On countless occasions, the ball will come backwards from Heslop, to be played by McLaren to Leven on the other side of the midfield. McLaren is the midfield pivot and is not needed to do huge amounts of running, something that will help the experienced midfielder over the course of a long season.

As well as being effective defensively, this shape also has potential to add to attacking threat. With McLaren sitting, the midfield three gives Peter Leven and Simon Heslop the freedom to join in with attacks. As both players possess the ability to hit the target from distance, this is of great benefit. Oxford's midfielders can still improve their runs into the box, but as shown by Leven's strike against Burton Albion, the late run can be very effective when timed correctly.

Furthermore, this is the formation that brings the best out of Wilder's full-backs. On countless occasions since Wilder arrived at the club, opposition players and managers have commented on the impact of Oxford's full-backs being so high up the field. This can pen opposition wingers deep in their own half, limiting their thread to the Oxford goal. With a reasonably narrow midfield three and the wide attackers free to roam, there is plenty of space for United's full-backs to advance into. With no winger on the full-back's toes, he can time his runs into opposition territory when the space becomes available. You will often see United recycle the ball from wide on one wing, playing the ball through McLaren into the space the opposite full-back has available. Without a flat midfield four to limit space, it is very easy for Oxford's full-backs to get involved in the opposition half.

If the wingers are not part of a midfield four, how do they operate as part of an attacking trio? The two key features of Wilder's wide attackers is that they play high up the field and have the freedom to roam across the front-line. By offering an attacking threat at all times, opposition full-backs are aware of their presence and can often be scared to venture forward as a result. Moreover, Alfie Potter and Robert Hall are very difficult for opposition defences to pick up. Although their starting position is often on their flank, they have the freedom to drift around in the attacking third. Potter is especially good at drifting along the opposition back line and this makes defensive organisation extremely difficult. If United were to play Potter and Hall in a flat midfield four, it would be far easier for opposition defences to match their full-backs to Oxford's wide men. In this formation, Wilder's wingers change position too often to simply match up to and can find pockets of space. With the opposition full-backs often asked to step out to Liam Davis or Damian Batt, Potter and Hall have the opportunity to momentarily isolate themselves one on one with central defenders, if the ball is fed inside. For any opposition defence, this is an organisational nightmare.

A front three of Potter, Hall and James Constable have a terrific work rate and this makes life extremely uncomfortable for opposition defences. With Constable harrying centre-backs and the wide men closing down full-backs, it is possible for United to win back possession high up the pitch and prevent opposition attacks from building.

As well as being flexible in terms of position, this formation also allows Oxford to play in variety of ways. Whilst the 4-3-3 allows you to play the ball through the midfield three, you also have the option of playing a longer ball into the channels, or a the diagonal used by Michael Duberry, for the wide men to feed off Constable's knock downs. In a league where a varied style of play is needed, the 4-3-3 allows both consistency in terms of shape, but variety in attack. Furthermore, the defensive shape 'breaks the lines' on the field. Rather than having two banks of four to play through, opposition teams must find a way to play through three separate banks of Oxford players to get to the back four. This poses a problem that many sides aren't used to and can make Oxford a difficult side to attack, if the defence do their jobs correctly.

Weaknesses

This is a very effective formation, both in attack and defence. However, the key issue defensively is addressing opposition players in wide areas in the central third of the field when on the counter-attack. These areas are shown below.

The last thing Wilder wants is for his full-backs to engage opposition players in these areas, leaving the defensive line without shape and allowing runners to occupy the vacant full-back region. The only solution is for the midfield three to deal with the threat, ideally with Heslop covering the right, Leven the left and McLaren maintaining his position in the centre of the field. However, if Heslop and Leven are caught up the field, with one of the full-backs also out of position, United sometimes have problems. It is on these occasions that Duberry, Wright and McLaren need to organise on the spot, slowing the attack whilst team mates return to their positions. Thus far, United have dealt with these situations well, but it is one of the key issues with the formation.

In attack, problems can arise if the front three become too static. If the front men are rigid, each could become isolated and attacks will break down. To be effective, the front three need to be fluid in their movement and willing to work along the front-line. Thankfully, each of United's attackers are mobile and willing to work hard to receive the ball.

Summary

The key strength of the 4-3-3 is that is working for Oxford United. Whilst fans have been frustrated at dropped points, it has not been linked to the formation. Plenty of chances have been created in attack. No change of formation will suddenly help a misfiring front line to find their shooting boots. At the back, the system also works. When United have conceded goals, it has been off the back of defensive errors. If the defence can cut out individual errors, no is no reason to suggest a formation change is necessary. Greater communication is needed between Davis and Wright to prevent the centre half being pulled out to the left flank and concentration at the back must be maintained during long periods of Oxford pressure at the other end, but the system itself works. In no game this season have United been cut open freely by opponents. This would be a cause for concern and a reason to change the system. However, whilst the system is creating chances at one end and looking solid at the other, there is no reason for mass overhaul.

4-4-2

The most popular option presented by those calling for change has been the return to the traditional, but decreasingly popular 4-4-2.

Strengths

The main justification for using the 4-4-2, according to the fans, is the extra body in the box when attacking. The use of a striker partnership can be extremely effective if the personnel involved are on the same wavelength. Constable and Smalley have similar qualities and would certainly be a physical challenge for opposition defences. However, the variety of attack seen with the 4-3-3 is likely to be lost. Potter and Hall both have the ability to beat a man in wide areas, but would be asked to maintain width in the midfield, thus removing Potter's greatest quality, elusive movement. Despite this, you are usually guaranteed three men in the box (both strikers and the opposite winger to the side the ball is crossed from attacking the back post) with a 4-4-2, the key reason for fans wanting to change shape.

In terms of organisation, a 4-4-2 is reasonably simply to manage. The defence works in two banks of four, matching up with the opposition on a man to man basis. Additionally, the entire team can work in organised partnerships, as shown below. This allows a series of efficient pairs to win battles in different areas of the pitch, both defensively and in terms of working together to build attacks.

However, with many managers choosing to work with five men in midfielder, serious issues arise when trying to play a central three with only two men in your own midfield. More often than not, this results in one of the strikers having to drop deep to help the midfield, removing the attacking threat they were included to provide.

Weaknesses

The 4-4-2 formation has been replaced by many managers due to the numerous issues that can arise against other systems.

With many sides deploying three players in central midfielders, the issues for a midfield two have already been outlined. Furthermore, to provide an attacking threat, a 4-4-2 requires one midfielder to push forward to attack the penalty area when the ball is in the final third. With McLaren likely to be deployed as the deeper midfielder, he would be asked to get through a great deal of work defensively. Whereas a midfield three can work together to make the field compact and maintain McLaren's base position in front of the back four, he would be unable to provide the same service in a flat midfield four. A midfield four requires two mobile central midfielders, who can cover the entire field. In McLaren and Leven, Wilder's two most effective midfielders do not fit the 4-4-2 system and putting square pegs in round holes would be foolish. Oxford's midfield would lack the balance of the 4-3-3 if they were to change the system.

On the flanks, there would be a far greater defensive role for Potter and Hall. Whereas a midfield three can deal with issues in wide areas, a midfield four would require Oxford's wingers to match up with their opposite full-back. If Oxford come up against an attacking full-back partnership, it would be easy for Potter and Hall to be pinned back in the same way opposition wingers are when facing Batt and Davis.

If the wingers are asked to occupy wide areas at all times, it is also likely that Oxford would lose some of the attacking intent provided by the full-backs. For full-backs to attack the final third, they require space to run into. This can either be provided on a simple overlap, or by a winger drawing his full-back inside, leaving empty space for a full-back to run into. If the wingers do move inside, this creates a very compact central third of the field.

With two wingers and two full-backs who can beat a defender in a one on one situation, it can be argued that the 4-3-3 suits the side better. In a 4-4-2, both the wingers and full-backs want to attack the same areas. It is possible to work this, as has been seen with full-backs such as Gary Neville providing quality service from wide areas in the 4-4-2 system. However, with full-backs such as Davis and Batt who like to cut inside, as well as providing crosses from wide, it is beneficial to leave the open spaces created in a 4-3-3.

Summary

The key to selecting a formation is picking one that suits the players. Rather than picking a formation and trying to fit players into it, good managers will find the formation that brings the best out of their players. Put simply, Wilder should look to put round pegs in round holes. Much has been made on the decisions to play the likes of Tom Craddock, Jack Midson and Steve MacLean in wide areas last season, but with these players Wilder has the right players in the right places. In a 4-4-2, this is not true. McLaren and Leven are vital players for Oxford, but would not suit a two man central midfield partnership. Furthermore, this system limits Potter, Hall, Davis and Batt, preventing them from doing what they do best in attack. Whilst fans like to see two strikers down the middle, their supply lines can't be sacrificed in doing so. On occasions, this would be the case. Whilst flexible tactics are important over the course of a season and 4-4-2 can be useful in certain circumstances (Wilder has been willing to change shape during games, when appropriate), it would not get more from the current players than a 4-3-3.

4-2-3-1

Finally, it is worth looking at an increasingly popular formation in world football. Originating in South America, the 4-2-3-1 has been used successfully in recent years.

Strengths

One of the key reasons for the popularity of the 4-2-3-1 formation has been the central midfield 2, shielding the back four. As with McLaren in the 4-3-3, this partnership should protect the centre of the field, preventing the ball from reaching the opposition strikers. The two holding players will also have varied roles. Whilst one is very much there for defensive purposes, the other usually possesses great passing ability and looks to dictate the play from deep. In Leven, Wilder has a player who would be able to fulfil that role, but his presence may be lost further up the pitch. Ideally, this player should be encouraged to continue forward movement after starting attacks, before making late runs into the box or sweeping up opposition clearances. If this player is mobile enough, the two man holding midfield can be utilised going forward, as well as providing a strong defensive shape.

Another key strength of this system is the four man attack. Although the three men behind Constable can drop back into the midfielder to add to the six man defensive unit, they are primarily there to work in and around the lone striker. Like in the 4-3-3, Potter would have the freedom to roam, but Hall and new arrival Andy Haworth would be expected to provide a natural width. Playing behind the central striker, Potter could drop deep to collect the ball, before driving into space as he does so well. The number of attackers in the final third should provide bodies in the box, with the possible variations of attack seen with 4-3-3 still possible. The ball can be played through Leven, to link with the four men at the top of the pitch, or into the channels for willing runners to work for.

The 4-2-3-1 offers balance, strength in numbers in attack and utilises the strengths of the players Wilder has at his disposal.

Weaknesses

Like all formations, there are issues that need to be addressed. As with the 4-3-3 system, there can be defensive issues in the wide areas near the halfway line. Without a three man midfield to defend these areas, Wilder would be forced to ask the wide men in his attacking three to track any runs from opposition full-backs. In theory, this should be easily managed but United could be succeptible to the overlap if the wide men don't work hard enough down the flanks. If Potter and Hall were forced to track back, they should not allow themselves to become pinned back for long periods of time, thus removing any attacking threat.

The central attacking midfielder carries a great deal of expectation in this role. Potter would need to be constantly on the move to make sure he doesn't become peripheral. If Potter can drop deep to collect the ball and be involved consistently, this is a role that could suit him down to the ground.

However, the greatest concern in regard to the 4-2-3-1 system is whether it could be effective in League Two. This is a division in which the pattern of play can often be end to end and it is possible that this formation could be overrun. If the ball is given away cheaply, this system does not have three central midfielders to recover the team's shape. If one of the holding midfielders and one full-back are caught out of position, teams can expose a vulnerable defence very quickly.

Summary

4-2-3-1 has been successful in teams that can maintain possession for long periods of time, but may not be perfectly suited to the lack of time available in League Two. Whilst this interesting system may be useful at home on the wide Kassam Stadium pitch, the midfield is not compact enough to stifle opposition in away games.

Conclusion

We are all entitled to our opinions on Oxford United. However, we all see the game in different ways and each of us has a different vision for how they want the team to play. Chris Wilder is the man that matters. He wants the team to get the ball down, make good decisions, get the full-backs forward and pass through the opposition. For these purposes and the players in the squad, 4-3-3 I the most efficient. Every formation has strengths and weaknesses, but 4-3-3 carries the least weaknesses and has shown that it works.

The system is solid defensively and creates chances going forward. The real issue for Oxford United has been individual error. If the side begin to finish chances and remove defensive errors, any debate over formation will be quickly forgotten.

Early impressions of Dalglish’s new Liverpool give reason for optimism

Not so long ago, I was a schoolboy. There are many stories from those mischievous years not worthy of a space on this website, but you should know that we were assessed by way of report card every half-term. The first report of the new year would come a matter of weeks after returning to school after the summer break. We all knew that it was too early to make any firm judgements about our prospects, but it had to be done.

As we sit through an international break (or a footballing half-term, as I am viewing it), the time feels right to make some initial observations on the new-look Liverpool.

New Signings

Unless substantial damage had been caused in a science lab mishap, every school report for a new arrival would be positive, usually welcoming the new pupil and setting out positive guidelines for the rest of the year. For Kenny Dalglish's summer signings, the assessment is very much the same. We are only four games into the new campaign, but the early impressions of the new boys have been positive.

Starting in defence, José Enrique has impressed immediately following his arrival from Newcastle United. The Spaniard is solid defensively and blessed with great pace, as well as great strength, which allows him to recover from any errors he may make. Enrique is wonderfully confident on the football, willing to beat a man and able to deliver high-quality balls into the area. When Liverpool's front men learn to read the left-back's crosses, goals are certain to follow. Enrique gets his head up early and varies his delivery into the box, from pull-backs to whipped balls into 'the corridor of uncertainty'. The left-back slot has been a problem position for Liverpool, but Enrique looks to be one of the bargains of the summer. Considering some of the prices quoted for underwhelming defenders, the fee of approximately £6 million represents fine value for money. Enrique's arrival took a long time to come fruition, but could prove to be one of Liverpool's best pieces of business.

Another protracted transfer was that of Charlie Adam. The Scottish midfielder looked set to join in January, but Comolli and Dalglish remained patient to gain his signature for a reduced price this summer following Blackpool's relegation from the Premier League. Known for being the big fish in the Seasider's pond, Adam is now surrounded by players of a higher quality. The nagging doubt was whether Adam would adapt to his new surroundings at a large club, but he has shown few signs of being intimidated. Although occasionally wasteful in possession, Adam has continued to exhibit an ability to play passes to stretch the play. Luis Suarez, in particular, appears to be forming a strong partnership with Adam as he learns that his runs, however far away from the ball, will often be found. The nature of Blackpool's football under Ian Holloway is not entirely dissimilar to Dalglish's pass and move style and could explain why Adam appears to be enjoying his role in Liverpool's midfield. Adam also appears far more adept defensively in a Liverpool shirt, no doubt aided by the shape Liverpool maintain when attacking, something woefully absent at Blackpool. Furthermore, his high-quality delivery from set-pieces could prove crucial in tight games where defences are providing stubborn resistance from open play. With a goal and two assists already to his name, Adam has settled well.

Alongside Adam in Liverpool's midfield is Jordan Henderson. Although his initial contribution was more tidy than spectacular, a strong performance against Bolton shows what Henderson is all about. Always a willing runner ahead of the ball, the England Under 21 captain will have plenty of opportunities in and around the box this season. He makes excellent late runs into the area and will be waiting for the pull-back whenever the likes of Suarez, Downing and Enrique get to the byline. Out of Liverpool's summer signings, Henderson is the one who will take the longest time to fulfil his potential, in no small part due to his age. However, he will grow in confidence over the course of the season and Liverpool fans can expect his contribution to grow week on week. Henderson has been hampered slightly by constant incorrect reports of the fee paid by Liverpool for his services, but there are plenty of signs for encouragement. The youngster possesses a wicked delivery into the box from the flanks, a good range of passing and importantly, a very good football brain. Over the course of the season, I expect Henderson to come into his own and Liverpool fans to learn what he is all about.

Finally, Stuart Downing has hit the ground running (as ever, very quickly) following his arrival from Aston Villa. By his own admission, Downing has failed to perform consistently at international level, but his club form has rarely been questioned. All the statistics suggest that Downing's contribution in the Premier League is impressive, but many have preconceived ideas due to his performances on the international stage. Aston Villa fans were thoroughly disappointed to lose Downing and backed him to be a success at Liverpool. On early evidence, how right they were. The winger shows no signs of being daunted by the challenge of providing the first genuine width seen at Anfield in years. He is direct, energetic and able to deliver with quality from wide. His performances thus far have shown consistency and he is effective on either flank, going down the line or cutting inside. When Liverpool were without Luis Suarez last season, the team clearly lacked pace. Alongside Enrique and the returning Craig Bellamy, this is no longer the case. Downing's individual contribution has shown signs of great promise, but an understanding with Andy Carroll is still lacking. If this can be added over the course of the season, Downing will be a vital player for Dalglish.

It is important to stress that we are only four games into a long season, but each of the summer arrivals has shown why Liverpool were willing to fight for their signature.

The Team

The start to the season has been extremely promising, with two dropped points against Sunderland the only blemish. Victory over Arsenal was important in terms of capitalising on their misfortunes to open up an early gap in the race for Champions League football and the home win against Bolton showed that improvements had been made from the opening fixture. Liverpool turned in a high-tempo, pressing performance throughout the game, with the atmosphere following the third goal and penultimate waves of attack reflecting the realisation among the fans that this side can play. More formidable tests await, but there is great benefit in creating early momentum.

There is also plenty of evidence that this Liverpool team know how to play together. Dalglish wants Liverpool to play quick football on the floor, recreating the pass and move mantra from years gone by. Daniel Agger is the catalyst for this, encouraged to play his natural game, striding out into the midfield. Both full-backs are encouraged to overlap, with Enrique in particular thriving with the license to roam. When Glen Johnson returns from injury, the attacking style of play is also likely to bring the best out of him. However, a fit Martin Kelly provides a formidable barrier in the contest for the right-back shirt.

In midfield, Lucas has picked up from where he left off last season, shielding the back four and allowing others to press forward. He has already formed an understanding with Charlie Adam, who works in similar areas to Xabi Alonso, during his time at the club. Adam often picks the ball up from deep to start attacks, before sweeping up any loose balls thirty yards from goal as these attacks are repelled, driving forward when possible.

Meanwhile, Stuart Downing has shown that he has a good understanding of the game, to accompany his pace and quality delivery. He is willing to move off his wing, dragging the full-back with him. When on the left, this leaves room for José Enrique to gallop forward, or Luis Suarez to peel into his favourite position in the channel, isolating his centre-half one on one in the absence of a full-back. Liverpool's football may appear very fluid, but there is great intelligence to much of the movement, with one player knowing exactly when to move into the space another player has vacated. Barcelona are masters of this art and it is refreshing to see a Liverpool side doing it well.

The only source of confusion at the moment is Andy Carroll. Put simply, Liverpool look a more effective unit when the big-money signing isn't involved. Although Carroll suffered a little against Bolton, replacing Suarez and, therefore, being part of a side without the Uruguayan's flair, he can contribute more to the side. Dalglish has built a side that can produce great quality from wide areas, but Carroll can work harder to make sure he is on the end of their deliveries. Too often, balls have flashed across the face of the goal, begging for a 6'3 Geordie to get his head on it. Carroll should benefit from the arrival of former team-mate Enrique on the left, but must have the belief that the balls into the box will be better than those from last season. If Carroll can get his movement right, there are goals to be had for him.

Furthermore, Liverpool need to be careful to judge their delivery to the big number nine. On occasions, youngsters such as John Flanagan and Jack Robinson have been too eager to cross from deep. Although these balls are intended to serve Carroll, in reality they are asking a lot from him. Liverpool's build-up play has been superb, so the issue is not getting into the final third. The key is for Liverpool's midfield and full-backs to remain patient, playing through the opposition's midfield and then putting quality balls in to trouble the defenders. Carroll appears disillusioned by balls from deep and will surely show a greater appetite to get on the end of crosses if they are delivered from the right areas. Carroll's header against Arsenal is the perfect example of how Liverpool should play with him in the team. Downing picked the ball up near the byline, delivered a quality cross and Carroll was only denied by a fine save. Carroll's tough spell is a situation that needs help from both sides. Carroll needs help from his team-mates, but in return they need a striker who is alive to opportunities when they are presented.

The key to Carroll's future in a Liverpool shirt is patience by all. Dalglish will be patient with Carroll, his players need to be patient in their approach play and Carroll needs to be patient with his team-mates, before coming alive when the opportunity is presented. Carroll's price-tag naturally means that he is under greater pressure to perform than most, but whilst Liverpool are winning games, there will be no hysteria. Dalglish has got the vast majority of his decisions correct since returning and fans should have every faith that along with Steve Clarke and Kevin Keen, he can bring the best out of his striker. Carroll's height may result in his selection against Stoke and if picked, it will be a chance for the striker to impress alongside Suarez. Carroll is clearly frustrated by his contribution at times, but will not be hung out to dry by his manager.

This Liverpool squad – and it is a squad now, each of whom feel part of the club – are enjoying the football they are being asked to play and are playing with a smile on their faces.

Transfer Window

This summer has seen an incredible turnaround in terms of the playing staff at Anfield. Damien Comolli asked the club's owners to trust him with bringing players in early, in the knowledge that large numbers of players would be removed from the wage bill at the last minute. This was a large investment of faith by the ownership, who admit they know little about football transfers, but they have been rewarded for their stance and deserve great praise.

In addition to those who have made débuts, Alexander Doni, Sebastian Coates and Craig Bellamy have joined the club. Whilst Doni arrives to provide cover for the ever-present Pepe Reina, Coates and Bellamy are signed for contrasting reasons. Bellamy's return is a short-term move, to provide squad depth and versatility in the form of a self-confessed Liverpool fan. Returning with what he perceives as unfinished business, Bellamy is not a signing for the next five years, but one who is a useful weapon for the next two seasons, initially. Bellamy still possesses frightening pace, which when paired with his intelligent movement, is a threat to Premier League defences. He is well known to both Keen and Clarke, whilst his admiration for Dalglish should see the pair form a strong bond.

Meanwhile, Coates is a relatively unknown prospect. The young Uruguayan centre-half is already a Copa America winner and was hailed as the best young player in the tournament, but doesn't carry the same price-tag as English defenders such as Gary Cahill and Scott Dann. Having spoken to a local 'South American football expert' (if such a thing exists), I have been assured that Coates is the real deal. He is a no-nonsense defender when needed, but is calm and comfortable on the ball. He also reads the game well, covering for a lack of burning pace and is a dominant force in the air. Coates will be given time to settle and is sure to be aided by the presence of compatriot Suarez. There is no finer mentor for defending in the English game than Jamie Carragher and with Clarke's coaching expertise, Coates will be taught how to adapt his game to the Premier League. The signing of an unknown South American defender may encourage concerned flashbacks to Gabriel Paletta, but Coates has already achieved far more in the game. A few errors should be expected as he adjusts, but in the long-term, this could be a shrewd signing.

The entrance to the Melwood foyer has been a revolving door this summer, with Comolli earning his money by finding new clubs for players deemed surplus to requirements at Anfield. Jovanovic, N'Gog, Poulsen, El Zahr, Aquilani, Cole, Kyrgiakos and Konchesky are among those to have found new clubs for this season, at the very least and Degen has terminated his contact by mutual consent. Liverpool's wage bill has been weighed down by players who are not in the manager's plans for too long and whilst a percentage of Cole's wage remains, plenty of deadwood has been shifted. As well as the financial benefits, there are significant gains to having a squad featuring only players who are in the manager's plans. Everybody at training will feel as if the they have a chance of getting games for Dalglish, creating a competitive but vibrant group. The sale of an unhappy Raul Meireles for £12 million must also be seen as a positive, simply because it maintains the fact that no player in Liverpool's squad is there against their wishes. Although a talented player, the Portuguese international was not a key part of Dalglish's plans this season and whilst not being forced out, was always available should the right offer come in.

The Future

The approach of focussing on one game at a time whilst only worrying about matters at this club is a method that is suiting Dalglish's Liverpool well. The squad is in place to have a successful season, but Dalglish does an excellent job of managing the expectations of fans in his press conferences. Many fans from other clubs had written Liverpool off as an also-ran before the season kicked off, but the impressive start has turned a few heads. Dalglish constantly reminds us that his side are taking each game as it comes and seeing where their performances can take them. The supporters appear to be buying into this attitude, enjoying the return to exciting football and not worrying about what is happening elsewhere.

This is very much that report card for the first half of term, leaving plenty of time for fluctuation before the true judgements at the end of the year. However, this has been an encouraging start to the season and Liverpool fans have every reason to believe that their team has the ability to do well.

Wasteful Oxford taught lesson by clinical Railwaymen

Oxford United were punished by a ruthless Crewe Alexandra side as they were sent home from the Alexandra Stadium pointless. Chris Wilder's men had numerous opportunities to trouble the scoreboard, but three clinical finishes gave the hosts a winning advantage.

It was evident in the opening stages that both sides were looking to play their football, with Crewe rarely looking to move the ball in the air. This made for an attractive match to watch and the sort of contest that so often brings out the best in United. Alfie Potter was the first to utilise the space on offer, testing Steve Phillips with a dipping volley from range. Simon Heslop also had the home goalkeeper scrambling across his goal, twice driving wide of the left-hand upright. However, United needed to be alert at the other end, with Dave Artell flashing a header wide of Ryan Clarke's goal, narrowly missing out on repeating his opening goal from last season's contest.

The home side were being offered plenty of room to stroke the ball around in, with Shaun Miller almost taking advantage on the twenty minute mark. The striker beat Michael Duberry but was denied by Clarke's fine sprawling save. Despite the impressive passing football on offer, it was with a double slice of fortune that Crewe took the lead. A pass from deep looked harmless enough, until it was sliced into the path of Danny Shelley by a United defender. The winger looked as if he may have been marginally offside when the initial pass was played, but he advanced on goal as the linesman's flag stayed down. Duberry looked to have saved United with a last-ditch block, but Crewe kept the danger alive, with Shelley releasing Miller to thump home off the underside of the crossbar.

Seven minutes later, Miller doubled his tally. The striker has always impressed against United with both his link-up play and his ability to find space in the area. This time Miller started a move of high quality, which saw Ashley Westwood burst onto a backheel on the right flank, before crossing for Miller to side-foot past Clarke. An evenly contested half had quickly become a nightmare for United, who were struggling to capitalise on the possession they had in Crewe's half. Too much football was played in harmless areas in front of the Crewe defence, with the forward passes lacking quality in the absence of Peter Leven. In contrast, Crewe's young team were revelling in the space afforded to them by United's midfield and were thoroughly enjoying their afternoon. United nearly sowed some seeds of doubt before the interval, but after Asa Hall's long-range effort was parried by Phillips, Deane Smalley was denied by a fine block from Adam Dugdale. If the name appears familiar, yes, he is and no, I don't want to talk about how well he played just yet.

United appeared shell-shocked and short of ideas, with the hosts increasing in confidence with every passing move, Miller in particular impressing the 3680 crowd.

If given the time in which to play, Crewe are one of the better sides in League Two and judging by the initial response in the second half, Wilder told his players in no uncertain terms to make the home side's life a little more uncomfortable. Paul McLaren began to steam into tackles in the middle third, allowing Oxford to build some pressure on the home goal. Liam Davis was another whose influence was increasing and it was his cross that saw Potter's downward header blocked by Phillips. The diminutive winger was in the chances again moments later, this time firing over the bar having outpaced the Crewe defence.

United were made to pay for these missed chances moments later as the midfield tempo dropped momentarily. This was all Luke Murphy needed to set Ajay Leitch-Smith clear, with the striker latching on to the pass before slotting under the advancing Clarke. 3-0 and now United really did have a mountain to climb.

Looking for an immediate response, Potter was once more denied by Phillips, as his low drive was smothered by the Crewe stopper. However, he was powerless to prevent United's next opportunity. Josh Payne, a replacement for Heslop, drove at the heart of the Crewe defence, jinking in and out, before lifting a cross for Liam Davis to nod home at the back post.

Moments later, Davis was inches away from doubling his tally as his low drive thumped the inside of the post, with Smalley unable to react quickly enough to turn the rebound home. There was further frustration to come for the travelling fans, with numerous balls being delivered into the penalty area, without a dark blue shirt in the right place to capitalise.

This was another frustrating afternoon for Oxford United. Without ever really hitting full stride, the visitors created enough chances to get something from the game. United had 60% of the ball, as well as 22 efforts on goal, compared to the home side's 7. However, the clinical finishing of Crewe was the difference at the end of the game. Whilst Jake Wright and Liam Davis were the pick of the bunch for Oxford United, Shaun Miller and Adam Dugdale stand out in the battle for the man of the match award. Miller was a constant threat to the Oxford defence, whilst Dugdale got in the way of almost everything the visitors had to offer. Despite Dario Gradi's nice words about Oxford's performance, the 518 away fans headed for home disappointed.

Chris Wilder made two changes from the Aldershot game, with Deane Smalley replacing the injured James Constable and Asa Hall coming in for Peter Leven. Damien Batt replaced Andy Whing shortly after the interval, with John Payne replacing Heslop midway through the half. Finally, Jon-Paul Pittman was given a chance to shine towards the end of the game, replacing the injured Lewis Guy.

Referee Graham Salisbury performed well, allowing the game to flow. There were few major decisions to make and those that were required, he judged correctly. Asa Hall and Lewis Guy were booked for late challenges, whilst Harry Davis saw yellow for halting an Oxford attack late in the game.

The victory lifts Crewe to 20^th position in the table, on six points. Meanwhile, United drop to 13^th, having won two, drawn two and lost two. To complete the neutrality, Wilder's side also have a goal difference of zero. Crawley moved to the top of the table with a thumping 4-1 victory over Bristol Rovers, whilst Rotherham dropped back after throwing away the lead twice, to go down 3-2 at the County Ground. Morecambe complete the automatic promotion places, despite conceding a last minute equaliser to Bradford City. At the other end, Plymouth Argyle remain rooted to the foot of the table, after a 2-1 defeat at Oxford's next opponents, Burton Albion. Hereford's late win against Dagenham and Redbridge was not enough to lift them out of the relegation zone. League Two remains a very tight division at this stage, with only five points separating 1^st and 15^th.

Visitors take a point as United fail to call the Shots

Oxford United were left frustrated as 10-man Aldershot Town fought back from a goal down to take a share of the spoils at Grenoble Road. James Constable's looping volley had put the home side ahead, but The Shots hit back through Luke Guttridge to send United's fans home disappointed.

Chris Wilder's side were given a rousing reception as they took to home soil for the first time since victory at Swindon and responded with a bright start. Peter Leven's outswinging corner was headed wide by Constable, before Lewis Guy raced in behind Aldershot's back-line. Anthony Straker was always the wrong side of the on-loan MK Dons striker and only succeeded in bundling Guy over narrowly outside the area. Referee Andrew Madley showed no hesitation in showing the full-back the red card, Aldershot's second in two visits to United. Peter Leven lifted the resultant free-kick narrowly wide of the upright.

Ten minutes later, Constable made United's man advantage count. Leven's floated cross was punched clear by Aldershot goalkeeper Jamie Young, only for the County Ground hero to hook a volley straight back over Young's head to the joy of the fans in the Oxford Mail stand (Aldershot had won the toss and opted to switch ends). One up after 20 minutes and a man to the good, everything seemed to be in place for a comfortable afternoon's work.

United almost doubled their lead shortly before the interval after confusion in the Aldershot penalty area. Liam Davis was unable to take the ball in his stride, before Guy's right-footed effort whistled past the angle of post and bar. Despite dominating possession throughout the half, Oxford's half-time lead was a slender one.

Alfie Potter replaced Simon Heslop at the interval, with Lewis Guy being handed a free-role behind the front three. However, it was Aldershot who began the half on the front foot. In a first warning for Oxford, Peter Vincenti was inches away from diverting the ball home as a header flashed past the post. As the pressure built, the home side struggled to get the ball clear and were eventually punished. Guttridge's initial effort was blocked by August player of the month Michael Duberry. However, the midfielder drilled his second effort low past Clarke into the Oxford net to level the scores.

Rather than sit back on their equaliser, the visitors continued to push forward at every opportunity. United were surrendering possession far too easily for the liking of anyone in yellow and were struggling to to build any meaningful pressure. A frustrating final period of the game culminated with Andy Whing firing over the bar after Jake Wright had failed to connect properly with a Duberry knock-down. The home support knew that this was the final opportunity to steal the points and as referee Madley blew the final whistle, there were plenty of unoccupied blue seats.

This was a thoroughly frustrating afternoon for all concerned with Oxford United. Much like at Swindon, the team were far from their fluent best, with only one shot on target all afternoon. However, this time they were made to pay for not putting the game to bed. This was worryingly similar to the Bradford fixture a fortnight earlier, with two points very much dropped, having been ahead at the interval.

Chris Wilder made only one change from the Swindon game, with Deane Smalley replacing Alfie Potter in the starting eleven. As mentioned, Potter's absence was limited to 45 minutes, as the winger came into the action at the break. Damien Batt replaced Paul McLaren on hour mark, with Andy Whing moving into central midfield. Jon-Paul Pittman entered the fray on 74 minutes, with Wilder desperately hunting for a winner.

Referee Andrew Madley found himself in the thick of the action early on, correctly dismissing Straker for preventing a goalscoring opportunity. Substitutes Batt and Potter both found their way into Mr Madley's notebook for late challenges in the second half. The game was watched by 6,673, with 435 making the journey from Hampshire

The point takes United to 9^th in the table, five points off the top and a single point outside the play-off positions. Aldershot Town's battling performance lifts them to 20^th position, one place above Swindon Town, who were beaten 2-1 at Shrewsbury. Rotherham lead the pack, beating Gillingham 3-0, despite the departure of Adam Le Fondre. Surprise package Morecambe were victorious at Northampton and lie in 2^nd place. Crawley remain third despite Cheltenham's 3-1 victory over the Football League new boys. Plymouth find themselves at the foot of the table, having been beaten 1-0 by Oxford's next opponents, Crewe Alexandra. Hereford remain in the relegation places despite picking up a solid draw at Bristol Rovers.

Lewis grabs three points for The Millers

Rotherham United 1 Oxford United 0

Oxford United kicked off the new season with a disappointing defeat at the Don Valley Stadium to a Rotherham side who will be a tough proposition to any sides visiting Sheffield.

Those who have been to the Don Valley will understand that it is an unusual footballing experience. In what is primarily an athletics venue, football supporters are seated along the length of the 100m straight, with the remaining 300m of the track eerily unoccupied. In what is presumably an attempt to keep some of the clubs links with the town of Rotherham, rumour has it that away supporters are seated equidistantly between the centre circle and the club's former Millmoor home. Whatever the reasoning, the 729 Oxford fans found themselves a long way from the action.

Rotherham began the game on the front foot against an Oxford side that lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, designed to become a 4-3-3 when the opportunity arouse. The visitors, wearing their yellow home shirts, stemmed the early flow of Millers pressure and then went about making their own impact upon the game. The diagonal ball towards débutante Liam Davis was testing Rotherham's full-backs, but no clear opportunities were created by either side in a frantic opening period.

The first clear opportunity fell to James Constable, but the former captain was unable to make firm contact on Damian Batt's whipped cross, glancing the ball comfortably wide of the left-hand upright. The same post was to come under far greater danger moments later as Oxford had a great opportunity to take the lead. Josh Payne curled a free-kick in from the right-hand side, meeting the stooping figure of Asa Hall. The midfielders header diverted the ball onto the woodwork, with Michael Duberry unable to hook the rebound goalwards as it came to him quickly.

This was as good as it got for Chris Willder's men in the first half as the home side began to dominate the possession. United's deep defensive line allowed little room for the mobile Adam Le Fondre and Chris Holroyd to manoeuvre and clear-cut opportunities from open play were at a premium. However, Rotherham's Ryan Cresswell is always a threat at set-pieces and his powerful header needed to be tipped over the bar by Ryan Clarke to keep the scores level at the break.

The traditional opening day away trip blueprint was being followed well by a disciplined Oxford side, but this was torn to shreds in the 48th minute by a moment of real quality from Lewis Grabban. Rotherham's front men exchanged quick passes on the edge of the visitors' area, before Grabban looped an unstoppable strike beyond Clarke into the top corner.

Now forced to chase the game, Oxford had a sustained spell of pressure on the hour mark. After a series of throw-ins and corners in the final third, a Davis cross was volleyed across the goalmouth by Constable. New signing Deane Smalley flung his body towards the ball, but was unable to make firm contact with the goal gaping.

The game remained a scrappy affair, with Oxford continuing the first half trend of squandering possession with frustrating frequency. Summer signing Peter Leven joined Alfie Potter and Jon-Paul Pittman on the field as Wilder attempted to increase his side's quality in the attacking third.

Gareth Evans fizzed a long range drive over Clarke's crossbar from 25 yards, before Oxford's fans were well-positioned (as much as this is possible at the Don Valley) to see a long Batt throw bounced agonisingly across the goalmouth without a yellow shirt being able to apply the finishing touches.

With Oxford struggling to create anything from open play, throw-ins and set-pieces were proving unusually threatening. Quick thinking from the touchline by Smalley released Leven, but the Scottish playmaker was unable to get any meaningful purchase on his shot as goalkeeper Conrad Logan advanced.

Rotherham had been efficiently running the clock down whenever possible (and that is quite often when you have a running track to fetch footballs from...), but almost doubled their advantage in stoppage time as Grabban raced clear, only to be denied by a magnificent one-handed save by Clarke low to his right.

There was still time for a penalty appeal as Duberry appeared to be barged in the back as a throw came into the area, but referee Dean Mohareb was unmoved.

Despite the late Oxford pressure, Rotherham held on to send the travelling faithful home ruing a below-par performance. Wilder's men will be looking to strike back at the first opportunity, as they welcome Cardiff City in the Carling Cup in midweek.

OUFC Season Preview 2011/12

Written for The Guardian's League Two blog. Disappointingly, not used due to an editorial double-booking error.

After an encouraging first season back in the Football League, this is the year that Oxford United will be looking to make a move.

The U's finished five points adrift of the play-offs in May, with manager Chris Wilder suggesting that his side were fifteen goals short of the necessary standards at each end of the pitch.

There is a real belief that these issues have been addressed over the summer months. The experienced trio of Tony Capaldi, Andrew Whing and Michael Duberry have arrived to reinforce the back-line, with Jon-Paul Pittman and Deane Smalley expected to provide further fire-power having signed from two of last season's promoted teams.

Wilder's transfer coup, however, is likely to be midfielder Peter Leven. The midfielder shocked MK Dons fans by dropping a level this summer, but should thrive at the heart of Oxford's passing game.

An undefeated US tour has been backed up by home victories against MK Dons, Everton and Birmingham City, giving Oxford fans cause for optimism ahead of the new campaign.

If the new faces can help the raw potential within last season's squad to fulfil its promise, there is no reason why Oxford United can not be challenging the promotion places at the end of the season.

Why The Continually Evolving Oxford United Have Reason To Be Optimistic

Pre-season is a difficult time of year for the average football fan. Having negotiated the barren weeks that form the close-season break with great difficulty, fans reconvene to witness the early stages of preparation for the new season. Deprived of a pleasing Saturday afternoon activity for longer than is considered safe, these warm-up games are not particularly exciting but they do a job.

Inevitably, the summer is spent convincing yourself that you won't get carried away this year, before lumping your weekly wage upon promotion the following May as your club announce the signing of a young striker, whom the internet informs you is 'the next big thing'. This is not a sign of weakness, but an entirely natural process to which we are all victims.

Oxford United fans are, admittedly, an odd bunch. Combining unfeasible optimism with constant assertions towards impending doom, you can find a little bit of everything on Grenoble Road. However, this year's confident approach could well be justified.

Chairman Kelvin Thomas has deservedly received plaudits for his work at the club since taking over the every day running of the club in October 2008, whilst his partnership with manager Chris Wilder (hired in December of the same year) has brought the club to a point of strength scarcely believed possible during Oxford's spell in the Conference. It is the desire of the pair to maintain the club's upward movement that has inspired such confidence amongst the supporters ahead of the 2011/12 campaign.

If we rewind to August 2010, Oxford United returned to the Football League with a hard-fought 0-0 draw away to Burton Albion. Considering where the club had come from, the pre-season predictions were perhaps more cautiously optimistic than boastful. Fans had faith in the side that had seen Oxford promoted in the play-off final at Wembley, but were wary of the gap in quality between League Two and the top tier of the the non-league pyramid. Only when looking back now is it possible to see the vast improvements made to Wilder's squad in the past year.

The following players formed the 18-man squad at the Pirelli Stadium:

Clarke, Batt, Tonkin, Wright, Worley, Bulman, Heslop, Hall, Constable, Midson (Philliskirk 66), Green (Deering 61).

Subs: Eastwood, Creighton, Franks, Clist, Baker, Deering, Philliskirk.

Whilst eight of those players remain a part of Wilder's plans, two are transfer-listed and eight have left the club. This is symptomatic of Oxford United under this manager. Wilder constantly refers to his desire to push the club forward and explains that the club's management are always looking to see how the squad can be improved.

This approach to the squad development should be applauded, but has frequently resulted in criticism from certain sections of the supporters. The exits of fan favourites such as Luke Foster, Dannie Bulman, Jack Midson and Mark Creighton were never expected to be welcomed, but Wilder's judgements have consistently been justified by his ability to bring in better players. For every Foster, Bulman, Midson or Creighton leaving the club in the past 24 months, a Jake Wright, Paul McLaren or Steve MacLean was signed. This process will continue in the long-term but possibly at a lesser frequency as the club exhibit the ability to attract players who could perform at a higher level and as such, command a place in the manager's thoughts for the considerable future.

The turnover of players at Oxford has been substantial since the Burton Albion fixture, with a number of players coming in throughout last season, only to be moved on and replaced with stronger players in the more flexible summer market. When analysing Wilder's dealings by comparing the new players with those that they have replaced, the strategy is clear for all to understand. Ben Purkiss, a solid but unspectacular right back, has been replaced by Andy Whing, a consistent League One performer who was offered a new deal at Leyton Orient. Djoumin Sangare has been replaced by the experienced Michael Duberry, Steven Kinniburgh by one-time FA Cup finalist Tony Capaldi, Mitchell Hanson by the raw potential of Ryan James and the likes of Matt Green, Sam Deering and Jack Midson could all be considered to have been replaced by the livewire Jon-Paul Pittman. In each case, there has been improvement in Wilder's squad.

Oxford's two most exciting summer captures are undeniably Peter Leven and Deane Smalley (potentially replacing Steve MacLean and Ryan Burge). These signings are evidence of the club's highly effective work in the window, but also show the flexible nature of Oxford's business. Smalley was one of several players captured early in the window, having been identified as a primary target during the previous season.

Wilder's proactive transfer-market strategy, coupled with the ability of both manager and chairman to sell the club to prospective signings, has been a significant factor in Oxford's success in the past two seasons. Previously, Dannie Bulman, Jack Midson, Mark Creighton, Ryan Clarke and Asa Hall were all signed in the month of May, allowing a near complete squad to attend the first day of pre-season training.

The signing of MK Dons midfielder Peter Leven shows the other side to Oxford's effective work in the transfer market. Due to the Scot's injury and potential moves not coming to fruition, Leven became available. Oxford acted quickly and captured the signing of a player who has the quality to play at a far higher level.

Football is a world in which you can never be happy to stand still and must never switch off. In Wilder, Oxford have a manager who is always thinking. In this transfer window, perhaps more than any other, Wilder has been rewarded.

Despite all the positivity regarding new signings, what can we expect from Oxford United this season?

Oxford have genuine competition in almost every position on the pitch (with a goalkeeper still needed to support Ryan Clarke). Rather than players simply providing support for the first team, there will be a number of very difficult decisions for Wilder to make. League Two Team of the Year right-back Damian Batt will be up against former Brighton 'Player of the Year' Whing for his place in the side, with Anthony Tonkin and Capaldi equally competitive on the other side. There are five strong players competing for the three midfield places, with a further five strikers trying to force their way into the starting eleven for the opener against Rotherham. Wilder will be quick to state that every one of these players will have a part to play over the course of the season with periods of frequent fixtures and inevitable injuries.

There is a marked difference between the quality of the squad that was named at Burton Albion and the one that can be named for the fixture at the Don Valley Stadium in August. There will be plenty of twists and turns throughout the season, and it is likely that further adjustments will be made when necessary. However, Thomas and Wilder have reaped the rewards for their proactive style, passion for the club and desire to continue to push forwards. So long as the remainder of the pre-season campaign can be negotiated without significant injury, everything is in place to push forwards in the coming nine months.

It might be written off as the natural process taking its toll and there are dangers associated with overconfidence, but Oxford United fans have every reason to dream of a successful League Two campaign.