By James Dailey
Neil Lennon’s decision to deploy the 3-5-2 formation domestically following the winter break coincided with a large increase in offensive production from whom I believe to be Celtic’s best two players: Odsonne Edouard and Callum McGregor.
I advocated for roles for each which manifested in the 3-5-2 here and here.
Exceptional Edouard
The following data indicates that Edouard thrived with a strike partner:
Edouard improved productivity in the 3-5-2, as his underlying stats in attack increased across the board. The theory I laid out on January 17th appears to have had some merit, as Edouard had more room on the pitch in which to operate with Griffiths advanced to the right combined with a midfield of a central Brown flanked by McGregor and Ntcham playing box to box.
I had decided to exclude Griffiths from my analysis at the time due to a combination of his extended absence, off the field issues, and having reached age 30. To put it bluntly, I was skeptical he would be able to return to a productive role, which I am thrilled to admit was 100% wrong.
As for Edouard, his volume of activity increased (shots, key passes, touches, dribbles, and progressive runs), while that volume retained the level of quality of chances created.
Edouard having the ball more can only be a good thing, in my opinion.
Magnificent McGregor
With McGregor’s shift from sitting in a dual pivot with Brown to a box to box midfielder, an obvious concern would be a potential decline in defensive production.
As the following data suggests, the dramatic increase in offensive production and creativity did not come at the expense of defensive output:
Once again, we see his volume-related statistics increase across the board while producing quality chances in attack.
He was more of a goal threat, advanced the ball more in space, and created more chances for teammates, all while increasing his defensive impact.
Conclusion
There has been much speculation about why Lennon transitioned to the 3-5-2, with some arguing it was thrust upon him due to the rash of injuries to wingers. Perhaps that is partially true, and I have not been shy in criticizing some of Lennon’s decisions. However, I believe Lennon deserves credit for the change, and it is one which seems to have had significant tactical forethought. The last 20+ minutes in the December 29th derby match was played in the 3-5-2 and Celtic controlled the game during that stretch.
It was then widely reported that the team worked on a “new” formation while in Dubai. I just hope Lennon and his backroom staff continue to prioritize the empowerment of our two best players.