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Southampton: Three things we might notice from Hasenhuttl’s 4-2-2-2 in 2019/20

By Marc Walker

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Ralph Hasenhuettl, Manager of Southampton looks on prior to the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Everton FC at St Mary's Stadium on January 19, 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Ralph Hasenhuettl, Manager of Southampton looks on prior to the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Everton FC at St Mary's Stadium on January 19, 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /
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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – MAY 12: Danny Ings of Southampton in action during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Huddersfield Town at St Mary’s Stadium on May 12, 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – MAY 12: Danny Ings of Southampton in action during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Huddersfield Town at St Mary’s Stadium on May 12, 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images) /

Ings dropping deep, Adams on the shoulder

At times during last season, Danny Ings did some superb creative work as a lone striker and, as a result, sacrificed his chances of getting on the end of attacking moves himself.

Particularly against Wolves in a 3-1 win, he dropped deeper and played a key role in some of the Saints goals on the day.

In a 4-2-2-2 system, he may well be fielded in attack with Che Adams. The 22-year-old will bring dynamism and pace in behind; offering another presence for Ings to work with.

At RB Leipzig, Ralph Hasenhuttl built a similar partnership as his forward line. Timo Werner became the dynamic goalscorer, whilst Yussuf Poulsen filled a supporting role.

Both Adams and Ings are good finishers and may actually end up netting a similar amount of goals each.

However, Ings could be the man to pull back out of the front line to create gaps that can then be exploited by the likes of Adams, Redmond, Ward-Prowse and Djenepo.