Middlesbrough used a back three for the whole of their Mansfield draw.
Rob Edwards thinks that Middlesbrough’s summer transfer dealings will most likely determine whether or not he continues to utilize wing-backs moving ahead.
Since Edwards’ hiring as Boro head coach, there has been much speculation over whether he will remain with the back three variations that he has chosen in previous roles, or whether he will prefer a four-man defence, which Boro have been deploying more frequently in recent seasons.
During Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Mansfield, the new head coach began with a 3-4-2-1 system before reverting to a 4-2-3-1 for the final 30 minutes to protect younger players who were coming on.
When asked about his formation preferences, Edwards was clear on how future recruits will likely influence the way he takes. He stated, “We’re still looking at it at the moment, seeing what would work for the group. I think it suited the XI that we fielded in the first half. We obviously switched to a back four after making some alterations.
“I am still fairly open. Depending on what we can achieve in terms of recruitment, we may be able to choose between a few options. My primary focus will be on principles and how we go about things. I want us to be aggressive and press high. I want us to be in control, and as far away from our goal as possible. Try to attack immediately.
“Whether it’s with a three, a two, or a four, it doesn’t really matter. We’ll probably make minor tactical adjustments throughout each game because each opponent presents a unique challenge. I wouldn’t make too much of using a back three today. I just thought it suited the bunch we had out there at the beginning.”
Boro are currently seeking Blackburn’s Callum Brittain, who has played both full-back and wing-back but is mostly a wing-back. Meanwhile, they’re attempting to sign centre-back Alfie Jones to bolster their defensive options, in a move believed unrelated to Rav van den Berg’s future. Boro’s next game is on Wednesday evening against Bradford City at Valley Parade.
It is the second of five domestic friendlies that Edwards will use to prepare his new team for the season opener against Swansea City on August 9.
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