4-2-3-1 best way for Tottenham to suppress Mane, Salah and Firmino

Opting for a 4-2-3-1 is the best way for Tottenham to combat Liverpool’s threatening triumvirate of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mo Salah. 

It’s the system Tottenham employed to great effect against Red Star Belgrade on Tuesday. Unquestionably Sunday’s test at Anfield offers an exponentially more formidable challenge, but employing a 4-2-3-1 is Spurs’ best chance to get something from the game.

Tanguy Ndombele and Moussa Sissoko, who complemented each other terrifically against Red Star, will be responsible for protecting the back four while keeping a close eye on all three Reds’ attackers. However, the priority will be on stifling Firmino.

It’s crucial for Sissoko and Ndombele to deny Firmino time and space. The Brazilian has a special knack for finding space, often pulling the strings in pockets between the opposition’s defence and midfield. By staying tight and disciplined, Sissoko, Ndombele, and Spurs’ two centre backs can more easily smother Liverpool’s trio up front.

Of course this formation depends entirely on omitting all personal error. Flawless performances are required to silence the most formidable attack in the top flight.

There is risk associated with playing a 4-2-3-1 at Anfield. In Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool have two of the best full backs in the league. A 4-2-3-1 will allow acres of space on the wings between Tottenham’s defence and attacking midfield trio, which Robertson and Alexander-Arnold can exploit. Regardless of who Mauricio Pochettino prefers at right back for this one, a 4-2-3-1 piles the pressure on the full backs, making their roles all the more important.

Knowing Liverpool will control the majority of possession, Ben Davies and Serge Aurier are the best options for the prospective onslaught. Davies and Aurier are the club’s best defensive full backs. Even though both players have a number of imperfections and flaws, they are best suited to contain Liverpool’s relentless pressure.

With Robertson and Alexander-Arnold continually pushing up field, which they are bound to do, space will open for Dele Alli, Son Heung-Min and Erik Lamela, all of whom can be lethal on the counter.

Again, it’s up to the players to execute perfectly the game plan. But employing a 4-2-3-1 with these players will provide the away side the best chance to come away from Anfield with at least a share of the spoils.