The Mixer: The Story of Premier League Tactics, from Route One to False Nines

Sports Journalism

Overview

This book is a must-read for any modern football enthusiast as it focuses on the evolution of Premier League tactics and was published to coincide with the competition's 25th anniversary. Before 1992, English football was outdated, physical, and based on strength rather than finesse. Teams rarely experimented tactically, and the game was dominated by 4-4-2 formations, midfield generals, reducers, and big men up front. However, with the creation of the Premier League and the abolition of the back-pass rule, the game changed dramatically. Defenders had to adapt to a new playing style, and the pace of the game quickened. The Mixer provides an in-depth analysis of the tactical evolution of the Premier League, including the directness of Ferguson's Manchester United, the attacking style of Keegan's Newcastle, the reactive tactics of Mourinho's Chelsea, and the counter-attacking strategies of Ranieri's champions. It is an entertaining and informative book that provides a long-term view of how the game has developed over the past 25 years.

  • Language: English
  • Number of Pages: 496
  • Published: 11 January 2018
  • Country of Publication: United Kingdom