Newcastle United: 5 things we learned from the 2017/18 season

4. The 4-2-3-1 Formation

After some lineup experiments to start the season, Rafa Benitez finally settled on sticking with the 4-2-3-1 formation. Overall, this was the best formation for Newcastle to use as the Magpies were heavily dependent on their midfield for goals. With Dwight Gayle and Joselu failing to meet expectations, Newcastle’s midfielders were tasked with making plays happen.

This formation enabled Newcastle’s defense to receive quick assistance from Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame when facing a counter-attack. Positioning Shelvey and Diame as central defensive midfielders also enabled the wingers to spread the field and create more space for the duo to operate in the middle.

Newcastle’s wingers would have been able to utilize their pace in any formation, but the 4-2-3-1 made their work slightly easier. If Newcastle played with two forwards, wingers would have to use the penalty spot as their focal point for crosses. However, with one attacking midfielder behind the respective striker, the Magpies take one or two defenders away from the crowded box.

The biggest negative impact from using this formation was that it limited Newcastle’s offensive efficiency with one striker up top. Yes, there were times when Newcastle scored multiple goals in a match, but at least one goal always came from midfield or defense.

Assuming Benitez gets more money to spend this summer, having a quality striker would make this formation more effective. With a 4-2-3-1 setup, the Magpies were able to place equal emphasis on defending and attacking. That balance served Newcastle well and led to an impressive top half table finish.