Last October, Southampton and Ipswich Town were strong contenders for Premier League promotion, sitting 5th and 2nd in the Championship table. Both teams earned praise for attractive styles of play led by young, ambitious managers. Kieran McKenna and Russell Martin, both 38, are still in charge of their respective clubs. Yet, neither has managed to win a Premier League game so far this season.
Struggles of Saints
“I’m proud of the journey they [Southampton] are on, but no one cares about any of that if you don’t win,” Russell Martin admitted just a day before his team’s 3-2 loss to Leicester City this past weekend.
He is not wrong. The thrill of Southampton’s playoff victory against Leeds United at Wembley Stadium now feels like a distant memory. What was once celebrated—stylish, possession-based football—has come under intense scrutiny in the top division.
In the Premier League, pragmatism is key, but it has been notably absent in Martin’s approach so far. The philosophy of the Saints boss is built around possession and precise passing. The team showed flexibility last season by adapting their formation to deal with counter-attacks.
However, in the Premier League, Southampton are no longer the dominant force. Martin’s persistence in sticking to his philosophy, despite mounting struggles, is becoming increasingly frustrating for fans.
A bumpy ride for the Tractor Boys
Ipswich Town’s promotion to the Premier League was perhaps an even bigger romantic story. Former Manchester United coach Kieran McKenna led the club to back-to-back promotions, bringing them back to the top flight after a 22-year absence.
The Tractor Boys were the highest-scoring team in the Championship last season, netting 92 goals with a risk-reward style of play. McKenna’s side has thrived on building from the back with a cohesive high-pressing game. Despite being winless so far, Ipswich have shown flashes of promise as they adjust to the higher…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/tactical-naivety-spells-danger-for-southampton-and-ipswich/
Author : Abdullah Mamaniyat
Publish date : 2024-10-21 16:34:28
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