Football manager 2 inside forward wingers

Understanding the inside forward role

The Inside Forward role in Football Manager 2 (often referring to the game's long-term iteration and continued evolution) is a dynamic and potent attacking option. Unlike traditional wingers who primarily focus on crossing, Inside Forwards are instructed to cut inside onto their stronger foot, becoming a secondary striker or providing a passing option for the primary forward. Their objective is to exploit space between the opposition full-back and center-back, creating goal-scoring opportunities through shots or through balls.

Effectiveness depends heavily on player attributes. Look for players with high Dribbling, Technique, Finishing, Off the Ball, and Decisions. Natural flair and composure are also highly beneficial. A player's preferred foot is crucial; an inside forward typically plays on the opposite flank to their favored foot (e.g., a left-footed player on the right wing) to facilitate cutting inside.

Tactical considerations for inside forwards

Integrating inside forwards effectively requires careful tactical planning. Here are some key considerations:

• Formation: Formations like 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, and 4-4-2 (with adjustments) can accommodate inside forwards. The key is to provide them with space and support.
• Team Instructions: "Work Ball Into Box" encourages more calculated attacks, allowing inside forwards to find optimal positions. "Exploit the Flanks" can create opportunities but needs to be balanced with central attacking options.
• Player Instructions: Individual player instructions can fine-tune their behavior. Consider "Cut Inside with Ball," "Shoot More Often," and "Take More Risks" to encourage aggressive attacking play.
• Supporting Roles: Full-backs playing as Wing-Backs (Support or Attack) can provide overlapping runs, drawing defenders away from the inside forwards and creating more space. Central midfielders should also be capable of providing through balls and supporting the attack.

For instance, Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp famously utilized inside forwards like Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah to devastating effect. Their ability to cut inside and either shoot or link up with Roberto Firmino proved incredibly difficult to defend against. The key was the overlapping runs of the full-backs and the tireless work rate of the midfield, creating a dynamic and unpredictable attacking force.

Player attributes and training

Selecting the right players and training them effectively is crucial for maximizing the impact of inside forwards. Here's a breakdown of essential attributes and training focuses:

• Key Attributes: Dribbling, Technique, Finishing, Off the Ball, Decisions, Flair, Pace, Acceleration, Agility.
• Desirable Attributes: First Touch, Composure, Vision, Passing, Work Rate.
• Training Focus: Individual training should focus on improving their weaker areas while honing their strengths. For example, a player with excellent dribbling and finishing but poor passing could benefit from additional passing training.
• Match Training: Focus on attacking movements, chance conversion, and set-piece delivery to improve their attacking output.

Consider scouting players with the "Cut Inside with Ball" Player Trait. While not essential, it indicates a natural inclination to play the role effectively. Also, pay attention to their Personality. A determined and professional player is more likely to respond positively to training and improve their attributes.

Troubleshooting common issues

Even with the right tactics and players, you might encounter challenges. Here are some common issues and potential solutions:

• Inside Forward Not Scoring: Check their finishing ability, composure, and decision-making. Ensure they are getting enough service and consider adjusting their individual instructions to encourage more shots.
• Inside Forward Being Marked Out of the Game: Try switching their position (left to right wing) to exploit a weaker defender. Also, instruct other players to draw defenders away from them, creating space.
• Inside Forward Not Contributing Defensively: Adjust their mentality (e.g., to Attacking or Support) and instruct them to "Tackle Harder." Ensure they have decent Work Rate and Stamina.
• Opposition Full-Back Negating the Cut Inside: Instruct the fullback on the inside forward's flank to overlap with the Inside Forward, either creating confusion for the defence or directly attacking the flank to open up space again for the inside forward.

Remember to analyze match statistics and identify specific patterns. Are they being tackled frequently? Are they missing easy chances? Are they not receiving enough passes? Identifying the root cause of the problem is the first step towards finding a solution.

Examples of successful inside forwards in football manager

Many wonderkids possess the potential to become world-class inside forwards in Football Manager. Keep an eye out for players with high potential who already possess the key attributes outlined earlier. Look for bargains in smaller leagues or players who are unhappy at their current clubs.

Examples of players who naturally develop well into inside forwards roles (depending on the specific Football Manager edition):

• Vinícius Júnior: An incredibly gifted dribbler with pace and finishing ability.
• Mohamed Salah: Proven goalscorer who thrives cutting inside from the right flank.
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Explosive winger with exceptional technique and dribbling.

These are just a few examples, and many other players can excel in this role with the right training and tactical setup. The key is to identify players with the raw talent and then nurture their development to unlock their full potential.