Quincy Abeyie wrote:
Isn't 4231 a 433 with an inverted midfield 3?
My understanding is the 4231 has a pyramid shaped midfield, based upon how it looks on the pitch with a #10 at the top ahead of 2 deeper CM/DMs.
From the same point of reference a 433 can have either a flat midfield 3 or an inverted midfield 3 with a #6 at the base behind 2 more advanced players as #8s and/or hybrid #8/10s.
......9
11 - 10 - 7
...8 - 6
3 - 5 - 4 - 2
.......1
.......9
11 - 7
....8 - 10
.......6
3 - 5 - 4 - 2
........1
Ultimately I suppose it depends on which way you read a shape with either the ST/CF at the top of the list/page or the bottom as to which way it looks on paper.
I grew up with the team formation listed with the CF at the top as in direction of play 'up' the pitch, whereas most times I see teams written out they start with the GK and the CF is last of the starting XI = GK; Defence; Midfield; Forwards; subs.
I must admit I do see team formations listed in graphic form with the GK at the top of the page more often, so perhaps I am showing my age and my use of the terminology is no longer correct in these modern times.
