While it was possible to puppeteer a dominant midfield, it was more likely that you and your opponent could frequently bypass the middle of the park with cutting through balls and direct long passes easily bridging the gap between defence and the strikers without the need for the men in the middle. Now, players will automatically stick a foot out if a ball is cruising past them and these interceptions should make a big difference when it comes to defending against incisive teams who will look to thread balls through half of your team on a regular basis. But fear not, that doesn't mean everyone's going to revert to the second tactic of hoofing the ball high, as the previously mentioned improved defending should somewhat negate that threat.
What Culture contributor. NCTJ accredited Sports Journalist. Regret-filled Sunderland AFC season ticket holder. Optimism-filled NFL fan. Lover of all things Game Of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Walking Dead & more.