Sunderland New Manager: 7 Things You Need To Know About Dick Advocaat

5. He Loves To Play 4-3-3

In the final months of his tenure as Sunderland boss, Poyet's tactics lurched from shape to shape, often baffling fans and pundits alike. Advocaat could well soothe the frazzled nerves of consistency-seeking mackems should he bring his customary 4-3-3 formation to Wearside. Used in his recent spells at Zenit and Russia in particular, the Dutchman's system is similar to that utilised by Poyet for most of his first season at the Stadium of Light. Two wide forwards and a central striker are anchored by a midfield trio - featuring a defensive midfielder - sat in front of a standard back four. It was certainly the best formation for the Sunderland squad last year, as proven by their cup run and league upsets against teams such as Manchester United and Chelsea, but a regression to this shape may not be wholly effective - especially without Borini and Johnson scampering down the wings.